KUALA LUMPUR (July 24): Malaysia Airlines Bhd started its Hajj charter operations today with a direct flight to Saudi Arabia's Madinah city from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). This is in conjunction with the global annual Islamic pilgrimage.

In a statement today, Malaysia Airlines said flight MH8000 departed KLIA at 6:30am and was scheduled to arrive in Madinah at 10:00am (Saudi Arabia time).

"This season, Malaysia Airlines will operate 76 direct flights to Jeddah and Madinah, departing from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Johor Bahru, Alor Setar, Kuala Terengganu and Penang. The last Hajj flight will depart KLIA on 26 August 2017.

"These Hajj flights will be operated by the A380-800 and A330-300 aircraft, each with a capacity of 483 seats and 287 seats, respectively. For the convenience of its passengers, Malaysia Airlines will also be providing domestic feeder flights operated by the B737-800 aircraft to connect passengers from Johor Bahru, Penang, Kuala Terengganu, Alor Setar, Kota Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching to KLIA," Malaysia Airlines said.

According to Malaysia Airlines, the second phase of its Hajj charter from Saudi Arabia to Malaysia will commence this September 7 till October 4 this year.

"Malaysia Airlines, together with Lembaga Tabung Haji, are committed to provide comprehensive superior and comfortable ground and in-flight service for the pilgrims,” Malaysia Airlines said.