First Hajj Flight Departs from Lahore with 329 Pilgrims Heading to Madinah

Pakistan officially began its Hajj flight operations for 2025 on Tuesday night as the first group of pilgrims departed from Lahore for Madinah.

The inaugural flight, PK-747, operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), took off from Allama Iqbal International Airport at 10:30 PM, carrying 329 pilgrims.

Warm Send-Off by PIA Officials

Top PIA representatives, including Chief Information Technology Officer Syed Saqlain Gardezi, District Manager Zaheeruddin, and Station Manager Ashfaq Awan, saw off the pilgrims. They also presented flowers and conveyed good wishes on behalf of the airline and national leadership.

Flight Plan from Lahore

• Total Pilgrims from Lahore: 11,350
• Dedicated Flights: 48 special flights
• Initial Destination: Madinah (Phase 1)
• Later Destination: Jeddah (Phase 2)

Nationwide Hajj Transport Plan

PIA will transport over 35,200 government-sponsored pilgrims through more than 117 special flights. Direct flights will operate from Multan, and Quetta, Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore, .

Hajj Operation Timeline

• Pre-Hajj Operations: Active until May 31, 2025
• Post-Hajj Return Flights: June 10 to July 10, 2025

The national flag carrier has implemented a detailed operational plan to ensure smooth, safe, and timely travel for all pilgrims. Airport authorities and support teams are working closely to manage logistics and passenger services.

The launch marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s annual Hajj preparations, reaffirming the government’s commitment to facilitating spiritual journeys with excellence and care.