Several Hajj aircraft have been canceled or delayed due to intermittent suspensions of airports at airports over Pakistan, the Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed Thursday. The temporary suspension of airport operations has affected the itinerary of approximately 3,080 pilgrims.
According to a spokesman for the ministry, flight plans for 13 Hajj flights were disturbed between May 7 and 9. This included cancellation of four flights and delays to nine others.
The spokesman stated that two Saudi airlines each from Islamabad and Lahore were canceled, while delays affected three flights from Lahore, two each from Islamabad and Quetta and one from Multan and Karachi.
Despite the disruptions, the ministry noted that most delayed flights went after a few hours. To accommodate those affected by the cancellations, 345 pilgrims that had been left was flown to Saudi Arabia today via a special Pakistan International Airlines (Pia) flight from Islamabad.
In addition, 540 more pilgrims are scheduled to deviate from Islamabad and Lahore on upcoming special flights.
In an attempt to streamline communication and provide timely updates, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has established a dedicated auxiliary line of 051-9216980. Pilgrims can call this number to receive real -time information about flight plans and departure timing.
The Ministry has also advised anyone who intends to stay in close contact with their respective Haji camps for updated information about their travel arrangements.
