Several Hajj flights have been cancelled or delayed due to intermittent suspensions of flight operations at airports across Pakistan, the Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed on Thursday. The temporary suspension of airport operations has impacted the travel schedule of approximately 3,080 pilgrims.
According to a ministry spokesperson, flight schedules for 13 Hajj flights were disrupted between May 7 and 9. This included the cancellation of four flights and delays to nine others.
The spokesperson stated that two Saudi Airlines flights each from Islamabad and Lahore were cancelled, while delays affected three flights from Lahore, two each from Islamabad and Quetta, and one each from Multan and Karachi.
Despite the disruptions, the ministry noted that most delayed flights departed after a few hours. To accommodate those affected by the cancellations, 345 pilgrims who had been left behind were flown to Saudi Arabia today via a special Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Islamabad.
Additionally, 540 more pilgrims are scheduled to depart from Islamabad and Lahore on upcoming special flights.
In a bid to streamline communication and provide timely updates, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has established a dedicated helpline at 051-9216980. Pilgrims can call this number to receive real-time information regarding flight schedules and departure timings.
The ministry has also advised all intending pilgrims to stay in close contact with their respective Haji Camps for updated information on their travel arrangements.
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