ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially unveiled its pre-Hajj operation schedule for 2025, set to commence on April 29 and continue through June 1.
During this period, the national flag carrier will operate 280 dedicated Hajj flights, facilitating the sacred journey of over 56,000 Pakistani pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
Sources confirm that out of the total pilgrims, 20,000 will travel under the Government Hajj Scheme, while 36,000 will perform Hajj via the Private Scheme, all utilizing PIA’s services. To ensure a smooth and comfortable experience, the airline will deploy a fleet of Boeing 777 and Airbus A320 aircraft for these operations.
Following the pilgrimage, PIA’s post-Hajj operation will begin on June 12 and conclude by July 10, providing return flights for pilgrims with a well-coordinated system aimed at ensuring efficiency, punctuality, and passenger convenience.
PIA officials have emphasized that comprehensive preparations have been made to ensure timely departures, enhanced safety measures, and the provision of all necessary facilities to avoid any inconvenience for the pilgrims.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken serious notice of the reduction in the private Hajj quota for 2025, a development that left thousands of intending pilgrims unable to secure a spot under the private scheme.
In response, the Prime Minister has ordered an immediate inquiry, forming a three-member committee tasked with identifying the individuals or departments responsible within three days. This investigation follows the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony’s reported failure to secure the allocated private Hajj quota from Saudi authorities, despite completing the procedural requirements in a timely manner.
