Hajj repatriation operation to begin May 31, over 119,000 pilgrims to return to Pakistan

Arrangements for the repatriation of more than 119,000 pilgrims returning under the government Hajj scheme have been completed, with the air operation scheduled to begin on May 31, officials said.

According to details, the first Hajj flight will depart from Jeddah on the night of May 31, carrying 391 pilgrims, and is expected to land in Sialkot on the morning of June 1, marking the formal start of the post-Hajj return phase.

On the first day of the operation, a total of 5,237 pilgrims will return to Pakistan. Authorities confirmed that 22 flights carrying pilgrims will arrive in the country on June 1, followed by 23 flights on June 2.

Under the scheduled distribution, five flights will land in Islamabad on the opening day, while Karachi and Lahore will receive four flights each. Multan and Sialkot will have three flights each, Faisalabad will receive two flights, and Quetta will have one flight scheduled.

Officials said the repatriation will be conducted through a total of 471 flights under the government Hajj scheme, with pilgrims returning from both Jeddah and Madinah. The operation will involve coordination between Pakistani government carriers, private airlines, and Saudi aviation services.

Overall, the air operation will continue for about one month, with the final Hajj flight expected to arrive in Lahore on June 30, marking the completion of the repatriation process.

Authorities stated that comprehensive arrangements have been made to ensure smooth travel, accommodation coordination, and facilitation of pilgrims throughout the return phase.

Reporter: Usman Khan