PIA Begins Post-Hajj Flight Operation As First Pilgrims Return To Pakistan
- PIA has launched its post-Hajj flight operation with the first batch of pilgrims arriving in Islamabad from Jeddah.
- The airline plans to operate 213 flights and bring back more than 53,000 Pakistani pilgrims by June 30.
- Flights will connect Jeddah and Madinah with major cities across Pakistan.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially commenced its post-Hajj flight operation, marking the beginning of the large-scale return of Pakistani pilgrims from Saudi Arabia following the completion of Hajj rituals.
The national flag carrier started the operation on May 30, with the first post-Hajj flight, PK-742, arriving in Islamabad from Jeddah carrying 114 pilgrims.
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Returning pilgrims received a warm welcome at Islamabad International Airport, where PIA Chief Operating Officer Aftab Gilani greeted them and presented flower garlands. Senior officials from the Airport Security Force (ASF) and PIA were also present to receive the pilgrims.
According to airline officials, the second Hajj flight of the operation, PK-732, was scheduled to travel from Jeddah to Lahore, while Karachi’s first post-Hajj flight, PK-860, was set to depart from Jeddah on May 31 and arrive later the same evening.
PIA has announced that its post-Hajj operation will continue until June 30, making it one of the airline’s largest annual logistical operations. During the month-long campaign, flights will transport pilgrims from both Jeddah and Madinah to major cities across Pakistan.
The airline’s return operation will cover Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Faisalabad, Multan, Sialkot and Quetta, ensuring that pilgrims from different parts of the country can return to their hometowns conveniently.
Officials said PIA plans to operate a total of 213 post-Hajj flights over the coming weeks. Through these flights, the airline aims to facilitate the safe return of more than 53,000 Pakistani pilgrims who travelled to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.
The airline stated that extensive arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for returning pilgrims. Special operational plans, passenger assistance services and coordination mechanisms have been put in place to manage the large number of arrivals efficiently.
PIA officials further revealed that the entire post-Hajj operation is being personally supervised by the airline’s Chief Executive Officer to ensure the highest standards of service, coordination and passenger care.
Every year, the post-Hajj operation represents one of the most significant transportation undertakings for the national carrier, requiring extensive coordination between Pakistani and Saudi authorities, airport management teams and airline staff.
With thousands of pilgrims expected to return throughout June, PIA’s operation will play a crucial role in facilitating their safe journey home after completing one of the most important religious obligations in Islam.
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