ISLAMABAD: The return journey of Pakistani pilgrims has officially begun, with the first post-Hajj flight arriving in Islamabad from Jeddah, marking the start of a large-scale operation to bring thousands of pilgrims back home after completing their Hajj pilgrimage.
According to officials, Flight PK-742 landed in Islamabad carrying 114 pilgrims, becoming one of the first flights of the post-Hajj operation for the season.
Warm Welcome for Returning Pilgrims
The arriving pilgrims were received at Islamabad International Airport by senior airport and airline officials.
Chief Operating Officer of Islamabad International Airport, Aftab Gilani, welcomed the pilgrims upon their arrival. Senior representatives of the Airport Security Force (ASF) and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) were also present to receive the returning Hajj travelers.
The reception reflected the significance of Hajj, one of the most important religious obligations for Muslims, and the efforts made to ensure a smooth return for pilgrims after their spiritual journey.
Additional Flights Scheduled
Officials said that the repatriation operation will continue across multiple cities of Pakistan.
The second Hajj flight, PK-732, was scheduled to depart from Jeddah and arrive in Lahore.
Meanwhile, Karachi’s first post-Hajj flight, PK-860, was also scheduled to depart from Jeddah and arrive in the city at approximately 7:25 p.m.
Flights will continue to operate regularly over the coming weeks to transport pilgrims from Saudi Arabia to various destinations throughout Pakistan.
PIA’s Month-Long Post-Hajj Operation
According to a spokesperson, PIA’s post-Hajj operation will run from May 30 to June 30.
During this period, the national airline will operate flights from both Jeddah and Madinah to several major Pakistani cities, including:
- Islamabad
- Lahore
- Karachi
- Faisalabad
- Multan
- Sialkot
- Quetta
The operation is one of the largest annual aviation undertakings in Pakistan and requires extensive coordination between airline authorities, airport management, and government agencies.
More Than 53,000 Pilgrims to Return via PIA
PIA officials stated that the airline will operate a total of 213 post-Hajj flights during the repatriation phase.
Through these flights, the airline expects to bring back more than 53,000 Pakistani pilgrims who performed Hajj under various schemes and travel arrangements.
The large-scale operation has been carefully planned to ensure that pilgrims are transported safely, efficiently, and comfortably to their home cities.
Comprehensive Arrangements Completed
PIA has announced that all operational and logistical preparations for the post-Hajj phase have been finalized.
The airline stated that special arrangements have been made to facilitate elderly passengers and families returning from the pilgrimage.
Officials added that the entire operation is being closely supervised by the Chief Executive Officer of PIA, highlighting the importance attached to the successful completion of the mission.
Importance of the Post-Hajj Operation
The return of pilgrims is a major annual event that involves coordination between Saudi and Pakistani authorities, airlines, immigration officials, and airport management.
Many pilgrims spend several weeks in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, performing Hajj rituals in Makkah and visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah before returning home.
The post-Hajj airlift ensures that thousands of pilgrims can return safely and in an organized manner after completing one of the most significant experiences of their lives.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s post-Hajj repatriation operation is now underway, with the first flight carrying 114 pilgrims from Jeddah to Islamabad successfully completing its journey. Over the next month, PIA will operate 213 flights from Jeddah and Madinah to major cities across Pakistan, facilitating the return of more than 53,000 pilgrims and ensuring a smooth conclusion to the 2026 Hajj season for thousands of Pakistani worshippers.
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