CAIRO: The Chamber of Travel Agencies formed a crisis committee to coordinate between different operators during the Hajj season, which kicks off in November amid swine flu fears.
Travel agencies will wait before paying for their clients’ bookings – transportation, accommodations, etc – until after the Ministry of Health finalizes regulations for this year’s Hajj trips, according to the ministry.
The decisions should be announced on Oct. 15.
The committee contacted all air, land and sea transport companies who agreed to receive their payments from travel agencies after the final decisions are announced.
The crisis committee warned all travel agencies against making agreements with Saudi Arabian hotels, transport or service companies that require a down payment before the health ministry issues its decisions.
Currently, the Chamber of Travel Agencies is taking more precautions in coordination with Saudi Arabia ahead of the Hajj season.
Saudi Arabian authorities instructed Egyptian civil aviation officials to ensure all pilgrims receive vaccination against swine flu, Asian flu and meningitis.
Pilgrims whose body temperature is above 38 degrees will not be allowed to travel. Food and beverages are not allowed on board.
Travel agencies were advised to coordinate hotel reservations and other services in Mecca and Medina through the committee to facilitate the process. Like every year, Cairo International Airport designated a terminal for the pilgrims, however this year it will be equipped to detect any swine flu patients, according to a statement by the health ministry.
