ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Saturday launched its pre-Hajj flight operation as the first flight carrying pilgrims departed from Karachi to Madinah, officials said.
Flight PF-7700 took off from Karachi with 160 pilgrims on board, according to the Sindh Directorate of Hajj.
Saudi Arabia has allocated Pakistan a quota of 179,210 pilgrims for this year’s Hajj. Around 118,000 seats have been reserved under the government scheme, while the remainder have been allotted to private tour operators.
Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi and other federal and provincial officials saw off the inaugural flight at Karachi airport early Saturday morning.
Officials said a total of 160 pilgrims departed on the first flight and were sent off with prayers and best wishes.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs said 660 pilgrims will reach Madinah on April 18 through three separate flights, marking the formal start of Pakistan’s pre-Hajj operations.
Hajj Director for Pakistan operations in Madinah, Zahid Sohail, said all arrangements had been properly planned to facilitate pilgrims.
The pre-Hajj flight operation will continue until May 21.
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The ministry has advised pilgrims to use the “Pak Hajj 2026” mobile application for flight schedules, departure timings, and airport information.
