PIA secures Rs9b Hajj quota amid sell-off moves

ISLAMABAD:

As the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) heads towards privatisation with a Rs10 billion bid, the government has awarded the national carrier a Hajj quota worth nearly Rs9 billion.

Under the agreement with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, PIA will provide travel services for 35,000 government-sponsored pilgrims for the upcoming holy journey, with new short and long Hajj packages priced between $800 and $1,000.

The government's allocation includes a quota for 35,000 pilgrims under the government scheme, while an additional 15,000 to 20,000 seats will be available for private Hajj packages.

The short Hajj scheme will span 20-25 days, while the long Hajj option will last 40 days. Pilgrims under the government quota are expected to pay Rs250,000, while private package fares with PIA may range from Rs300,000 to Rs350,000.

Under the agreement, PIA will launch special Hajj flights in 2025 from major cities including Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Quetta, Multan and Sukkur.

PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat and Additional Secretary of Religious Affairs Dr Syed Attaur Rehman formalised the partnership.

Commenting on last year's operations, Hayat noted PIA's successful adherence to schedule and high punctuality rates. He expressed confidence that the upcoming Hajj services will deliver even better results and enhanced passenger experiences.