The Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA) has started the post-Hajj return operation after receiving the first flight carrying pilgrims at Islamabad International Airport.
According to the PAA, flight PK-742 landed at 7:15pm with 165 pilgrims on board. The arrival officially marked the beginning of Hajj pilgrims’ return to Pakistan.
The authority said the return operation will continue until June 30.
On June 1, Islamabad Airport will receive five Hajj flights, while Karachi and Lahore will each receive four flights. Three flights are scheduled for Multan and Sialkot, two for Faisalabad, and one for Quetta.
Under the government Hajj scheme, authorities will bring back around 119,000 pilgrims through 471 flights during the post-Hajj operation.
The operation involves joint efforts by Pakistani government airlines, private airlines, and Saudi carriers to ensure the smooth return of pilgrims to the country.
Also Read, Saudi Arabia warns of severe heatwave during Hajj season
Earlier, A Private news channel reported on Saturday that Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj is saying that temperatures will reach extreme levels during the Hajj 2026 and will hit as high as 47 degrees Celsius in Makkah on May 25.
Saudi weather authorities also predicted that the heat in Madina during the pilgrimage season will hit 44 degrees Celsius.
“Humidity will be around 40 per cent and dusty winds will be experienced in open areas that are visited by pilgrims on a regular basis,” authorities said.
There is also the possibility of thunderstorms and precipitation in the mountainous areas of Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and parts of Makkah.
