Pakistan will commence Hajj flight operations on April 18, continuing until May 21, to transport pilgrims under the government scheme to Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has outlined the schedule, with flights departing from Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan starting on April 18.
In total, 468 flights are planned to carry pilgrims from eight cities across the country to the Holy Sites. The airlines involved in the operation include Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), AirBlue, Air Sial, and Saudia Airlines. On the first day, four flights will depart for Madinah, marking the beginning of the Hajj airlift.
During the initial 15 days, all flights will be directed exclusively to Madinah. A total of 186 flights will serve this city, while 282 flights are scheduled for Jeddah. Flights to Jeddah will start on May 4, allowing a phased approach to transporting pilgrims.
The government scheme will facilitate the travel of 119,000 Pakistani pilgrims to Madinah and Makkah. Among them, 67,230 male pilgrims will journey under the official program, alongside 51,846 female pilgrims. This distribution reflects the ministry’s commitment to accommodating all pilgrims efficiently.
Flight operations will be conducted from eight cities: Islamabad with 129 flights, Karachi 124, Lahore 104, Quetta 18, Multan 34, Sialkot 26, Faisalabad 23, and Sukkur 5. This extensive network aims to provide convenient access for pilgrims from across the country.
Meanwhile, the ministry has urged pilgrims to check their flight details via the “Pak Hajj Mobile” application. Additionally, comprehensive information about Hajj flights is accessible on the ministry’s official website, ensuring pilgrims remain well-informed throughout the process.
