Pakistan’s post-Hajj repatriation operation will begin on Wednesday, June 11, with the first group of returning pilgrims expected to arrive in Islamabad in the early hours. According to airport authorities, all arrangements have been finalised to ensure a smooth and dignified return process.
The first flight, carrying 307 pilgrims under the government’s short-term Hajj scheme, is scheduled to depart from Jeddah late Tuesday night and land in Islamabad around 3 am. Officials confirmed that the operation will run until July 10, with over 88,000 pilgrims expected to return home through a series of flights.
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Eight flights are scheduled to arrive on the first day, landing at major airports in Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and Karachi. Aftab Gilani, Chief Executive Officer of Islamabad International Airport, said preparations had been completed to welcome the pilgrims. He also noted that flights from Medina would begin about a week later, as many pilgrims are currently travelling there after completing Hajj.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs stated that 342 flights will be operated throughout the repatriation period. These will include services from Pakistan International Airlines, private local carriers, and airlines based in Saudi Arabia.
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Authorities have assured that facilities at airports, security arrangements, and the presence of Hajj mission staff will help manage the operation efficiently. The Pakistani Hajj Mission was recently honoured with an Excellence Award for its coordination efforts during this year’s pilgrimage.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman earlier praised the successful organisation of the Hajj, which hosted millions of pilgrims from around the world.