LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The first Hajj flight of the year, AirSial Flight PF-7700, departed from Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport for Madina on Tuesday, carrying 150 pilgrims embarking on their spiritual journey.
Punjab’s Minister for Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education, Khawaja Salman Rafique, along with senior officials including Director Hajj Rizwan Sharif, Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) Chief Operating Officer Chaudhry Nazir Ahmad, and ANF Punjab Commander Brigadier Sikandar, attended a special farewell ceremony.
In his address, Rafique expressed gratitude for the honor of seeing off the pilgrims, a responsibility assigned by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. He commended the coordinated efforts of the Punjab government, airport authorities, ASF, Customs, FIA, and AirSial in ensuring smooth travel arrangements.
Calling Hajj a profound spiritual blessing, Rafique urged the pilgrims to make the most of their time at Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. He encouraged them to pray for their personal well-being, Pakistan’s prosperity, and the unity of the Muslim Ummah, while also reminding them to respect Saudi regulations during their sacred visit.
Director Hajj Rizwan Sharif highlighted the special arrangements made for this year’s pilgrimage and emphasized the importance of following the host country’s laws. He announced that informational material would be provided to assist pilgrims throughout their journey.
Chaudhry Nazir Ahmad praised the facilities arranged for pilgrims and revealed a major upcoming initiative: “Next year, we plan to introduce the ‘Road to Makkah’ project at Lahore Airport, which will streamline immigration procedures for Hajj travelers.”
Brigadier Sikandar also congratulated the departing pilgrims, assuring them of extensive efforts by all airport departments to facilitate a smooth departure. He cautioned travelers to remain alert and avoid accepting items from unknown individuals to support the ANF’s anti-drug trafficking initiatives.
Later today, a second Hajj flight carrying 350 more pilgrims is scheduled to depart from Lahore to Madina, further continuing Pakistan’s Hajj operations for the year.
