Pakistan International Airline (PIA) has suspended its Umrah operation till March 15.

In the wake of the novel coronavirus spread, following the Saudi Airlines the PIA issued a directive regarding the Umrah pilgrims, suspending the Umrah operation till 15 March.

The national flag carrier put on hold not only the travellers seeking Umrah but also those who wished to go to Jeddah and Madinah on visit visas.

For now, the PIA will only carry the Aqama holders and the permanent Saudi residents from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia. However, some relief was extended to the business visa holders who would be allowed to travel through PIA to Damam and Riyadh.

In addition, those flying from Peshawar to Jeddah via Karachi would be barred from leaving the country, and such passengers would be provided facilities according to the airline rules.

The passengers have been advised to keep in touch with the PIA call centres in order to avoid any inconvenience.

The PIA move came after Sauid authorities banned entry of pilgrims from virus-affected countries.