Pakistan’s Hajj flight operations have officially started, with the first group of pilgrims departing on their sacred journey to Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced that Hajj flights from Pakistan commenced on April 18, 2026. The flight operation will continue until May 21, transporting thousands of pilgrims to Hijaz, including Medina and Mecca. A total of 468 flights will be operated under the government Hajj scheme.
Initial flights originated from Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan, marking the start of this 34-day operation. On the first day, four flights carried pilgrims directly to Madinah. Pakistan International Airlines, AirBlue, Air Sial, and Saudia Airlines are all participating in the operation.
Around 119,000 Pakistani pilgrims will travel under the government scheme, including 67,230 men and 51,846 women. The first 15 days of the operation are dedicated to transporting pilgrims to Medina. A total of 186 flights will land in Medina, while 282 will operate to Jeddah, with Jeddah-bound flights starting from May 4.
A significant improvement this year is the “Route to Makkah” project at Lahore’s terminal, where pilgrims can now complete Saudi immigration procedures right inside Pakistan. This eliminates long waiting times upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Pilgrims are advised to check their flight details through the official Pak Hajj Mobile app. This year’s well-organized operation reflects Pakistan’s commitment to providing its citizens a smooth and blessed journey to the holy sites.
