ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s pre-Hajj flight operation commenced on Tuesday with the departure of the first flight, PIA PK-713, from Islamabad International Airport to Madinah, carrying 442 pilgrims.
The departure was marked by a formal farewell ceremony attended by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf Al-Malki, and PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat, who extended their best wishes to the pilgrims.
Simultaneously, the first Hajj flight from Quetta, PK-7201, also took off at 10:00 AM, carrying 170 pilgrims. Later in the day, PIA flight PK-747 is scheduled to depart from Lahore at 10:00 PM with 323 pilgrims on board.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will operate direct Hajj flights from six major cities—Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, and Quetta—under the government’s Hajj scheme. The national flag carrier plans to transport approximately 35,200 pilgrims through over 117 special flights during the pre-Hajj phase.
The pre-Hajj operation is set to continue until May 31. The post-Hajj return flights will begin on June 10 and conclude by July 10, ensuring a complete round-trip service for pilgrims.
In preparation for the influx of Hajj travelers, Saudi officials responsible for Hajj facilitation have arrived at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. According to the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), the visiting delegation will manage eight dedicated counters at the airport to process and assist pilgrims.
In total, 89,000 Pakistani pilgrims will be transported to Saudi Arabia under the government Hajj scheme via 342 scheduled flights. The operation reflects strong coordination between Pakistani and Saudi authorities to ensure a smooth travel experience for pilgrims.
Officials confirmed that the initial phase will prioritize timely departures and efficient processing, especially during the first 15 days of operations.
