As the annual Hajj pilgrimage season approaches, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has unveiled plans for facilitating the departure of pilgrims from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia. The flight operations, set to span from May 9 to June 9, aim to ensure a smooth and efficient journey for the faithful embarking on this sacred pilgrimage.
According to the ministry, the inaugural day will witness the departure of 2,160 pilgrims through 11 flights, marking the beginning of the spiritual journey for many. During the initial phase of flight operations, spanning the first 15 days, all flights will be routed to Madina airport. Subsequently, from May 24 to June 9, the focus will shift to Jeddah Airport, facilitating onward travel to the revered sites for the pilgrims.
The Ministry’s spokesperson revealed that on the maiden day, 680 pilgrims will depart from Islamabad via three flights, while 330 pilgrims will embark from Karachi through two flights. Lahore will witness the departure of 670 pilgrims across three flights. Additionally, flights from Multan and Sialkot are scheduled to take off, ensuring comprehensive coverage across different regions.
Highlighting the inclusive approach, the spokesperson disclosed that the first Hajj flight from Quetta is slated for May 11, followed by Sukkur on May 27, demonstrating a concerted effort to accommodate pilgrims from diverse areas of Pakistan. In total, over 68,000 pilgrims are anticipated to journey to Saudi Arabia through 259 flights, underscoring the scale of the logistical operation.
Crucially, the spokesperson emphasized that the first flight returning home with pilgrims is scheduled for June 20, reflecting meticulous planning and coordination by the ministry to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims throughout their Hajj experience.
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