Islamabad, April 05: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially launched its pre-Hajj 2025 flight schedule, which is set to commence on April 29 and continue through June 1.
According to the media, the national carrier plans to operate a total of 280 dedicated Hajj flights during this phase, aimed at facilitating the pilgrimage of more than 56,000 Pakistani nationals to Saudi Arabia.
Out of the total pilgrims, 20,000 are set to travel under the government’s official Hajj scheme, while the remaining 36,000 will journey through private Hajj operators—yet all will fly via PIA.
The airline has designated its Boeing 777 and Airbus A320 aircraft to ensure a seamless and comfortable travel experience for the pilgrims.
Hajj Operation Schedule
The return or post-Hajj operation is scheduled to begin on June 12 and will conclude on July 10.
During this period, PIA will execute a carefully coordinated system of return flights to bring pilgrims back home efficiently and safely.
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Officials involved in the operation have confirmed that meticulous arrangements are in place to ensure punctuality, security, and maximum convenience for all travelers.
Special focus is being given to avoid delays and any potential disruptions.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently took serious notice of the reduction in the quota for private Hajj pilgrims, which has left thousands of applicants unable to participate in this year’s pilgrimage under the private scheme.
In response, the Prime Minister ordered an urgent inquiry and formed a three-member committee to investigate the issue.
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The committee has been directed to identify the responsible individuals or departments within three days.
The inquiry was prompted by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony’s reported failure to secure the allotted private Hajj quota from Saudi Arabia for the 2025 season, despite having met all procedural requirements in a timely manner.