First Flights Set to Arrive as Repatriation Begins
Pakistan has completed preparations for the return of more than 119,000 pilgrims travelling under the government Hajj scheme, with the post-Hajj flight operation scheduled to begin on May 31.
According to officials, the first return flight will depart from Jeddah late on May 31 carrying 391 pilgrims and is expected to arrive in Sialkot on the morning of June 1.
The arrival will formally mark the start of a month-long repatriation operation designed to bring pilgrims back from Saudi Arabia following the completion of Hajj rituals.
Meanwhile, authorities confirmed that 5,237 pilgrims will return to Pakistan on the first day of the operation.
Furthermore, officials stated that 22 flights carrying returning pilgrims are scheduled to land across the country on June 1, while another 23 flights are planned for June 2.
The operation involves extensive coordination among aviation authorities, government agencies, and airline operators to ensure a smooth return process.
Flights to Serve Major Cities Across the Country
Under the flight schedule, five aircraft will arrive in Islamabad on the opening day of the operation.
Additionally, four flights each are expected to land in Karachi and Lahore.
Meanwhile, three flights each will arrive in Multan and Sialkot, while Faisalabad will receive two flights and Quetta will welcome one flight carrying returning pilgrims.
Officials said the complete repatriation effort will be conducted through 471 flights operating from both Jeddah and Madinah.
Furthermore, the operation will involve Pakistan’s national carriers, private airlines, and Saudi aviation services working together to facilitate passenger movement.
Authorities have also finalized arrangements related to travel management, airport operations, and passenger assistance throughout the return phase.
According to the current schedule, the final Hajj flight is expected to arrive in Lahore on June 30, bringing the nationwide repatriation operation to a close.
