The post-Hajj repatriation operation for Pakistani pilgrims will formally commence on Wednesday (June 11), with the first flight scheduled to land at Islamabad International Airport in the early hours of the day.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of Islamabad International Airport, Aftab Gilani, all necessary arrangements have been finalised to ensure a smooth and dignified return of pilgrims.
The first flight, carrying 307 pilgrims under the government’s short-term Hajj scheme, will depart from Jeddah at 11:50 pm on Tuesday and is expected to arrive in Islamabad at 3 am on Wednesday.
The post-Hajj operation will continue till July 10, during which more than 88,000 pilgrims will be brought back to Pakistan through a series of scheduled flights.
In the initial phase of the operation, a total of eight flights are expected to arrive on June 11, landing at Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and Karachi airports.
Speaking to the media, Mr Gilani said, “We are fully prepared to facilitate returning pilgrims with all arrangements in place at the airport. The operation will gradually expand, with flights from Medina expected to begin a week later.”
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that a total of 342 flights will be operated during the repatriation phase. These will include services by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), private domestic carriers, and Saudi-based airlines.
Officials said that pilgrims are currently moving from Mecca to Medina after completing their Hajj rituals, which is why return flights from Medina will be scheduled in the second phase of the operation.
The government has reiterated its commitment to providing a safe and respectful journey home for the pilgrims. Airport authorities, security personnel, and Hajj mission staff have been deployed to ensure that the operation proceeds without disruptions.
Meanwhile, the Pakistani Hajj Mission was recently awarded an Excellence Award in recognition of its effective coordination and support during the 2024 Hajj season.
Earlier, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had extended congratulations to the kingdom for the successful management of this year’s pilgrimage, which saw the participation of millions of Muslims from across the world.
