At the airport and in the aircraft

In this day and age, we use the facilities at the airports and in the planes when travelling for Hajj and ‘Umrah. At the same time, we know very well that these are places of immense fitnah and evil. Sin and wrong invite a person from all directions. Music, women, adverts and billboards are glaring into the faces of the travellers, diverting their attention from Allah Ta’aala and His Beloved Nabi Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wa Sallam. One has to exercise great caution in these places.

The following points should be kept in mind:

• Travellers for Hajj and ‘Umrah should avoid walking around and spending their time shopping and loitering at the airports. These distract a person from the purpose of his noble journey.
• Preferably, sit in a corner and remain engaged in the Tilaawah (recitation) of the Qur’aan Kareem or the recitation of Durood Shareef.
• At the time of Salaah, call out the Azaan and perform Salaah. This is a great Da’wah for non-muslims and also a reminder for the Muslims.
• Do not rush or hurry and keep in mind the convenience of your fellow travellers.
• In the aircraft, one has to be very careful. Fitnahs abound from all sides. Take care of your eyes, ears and heart. The visitor to Madinah Munawwarah has to be extra cautious whilst travelling, making sure his heart is not tainted with any evil before presenting himself in the court of Nabi Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wa Sallam.
• Keep your gaze lowered and avoid contact with any females, especially the air hostesses.
• When making Wudhu and performing Salaah, do not cause undue inconvenience to your fellow passengers.