PIA Begins Post-Hajj Flights, Over 115,000 Pakistani Pilgrims Returning Home
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially commenced its post-Hajj flight operation for 2025, with the first return flight PK-732 departing from Jeddah on Tuesday evening. The flight, carrying 307 pilgrims, left King Abdulaziz International Airport at 8:50 PM local time and is scheduled to arrive at Islamabad International Airport at 3:50 AM on Wednesday.
According to Dr. Syed Ata Ur Rehman, Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, this marks the beginning of a large-scale repatriation operation following this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
The first return flight from Madinah, PK-7030, is scheduled for June 12. It will depart at 3:30 PM and is expected to land in Lahore at 10:30 PM, also with 307 pilgrims on board.
The post-Hajj return operation will continue until July 10, concluding with flight PK-7094, which will bring around 437 pilgrims from Madinah to Islamabad.
Over 115,000 Pakistanis Performed Hajj in 2025
Dr. Ata confirmed that more than 115,000 Pakistanis performed Hajj this year under both government and private schemes. Of these, over 88,000 pilgrims traveled under the government scheme and will be flown back through 362 scheduled flights.
The Pakistan Hajj Mission has made comprehensive logistical arrangements to ensure the safe, smooth, and dignified return of all pilgrims. Special facilitation desks have also been set up at airports to assist returning pilgrims with immigration and customs formalities.
Authorities have urged pilgrims and their families to remain updated with the flight schedules and to arrive at the airports well ahead of departure times to avoid any inconvenience.
