Hajj 2026 flight operations have officially begun, with pilgrims arriving at Karachi airport ahead of the first departures under this year’s programme. The first Hajj flight, operated by a private airline, is scheduled to depart at 3:00 a.m., while authorities have already started immigration processing for pilgrims.
Officials from the Airport Authority, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Customs, and the Federal Investigation Agency are managing operations at Quaid-e-Azam International Airport. This year, around 31,000 pilgrims will depart from Karachi airport, and the relevant authorities have finalised all special arrangements to facilitate their journey.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs had earlier announced that Hajj flights under the government scheme would begin from April 18, with 468 flights planned to carry more than 119,000 intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia by May 21.
Hajj 2026 Flights Begin With Karachi
Karachi is playing a pivotal role in the opening phase of this year’s Hajj operation. The Governor of Sindh will see off the pilgrims on the inaugural flight, highlighting the significance of the launch.
The start of departures marks the transition from planning to full execution, with airport agencies now working together to move pilgrims through check-in, immigration, customs, and boarding in an organised way.
Saudi Arabia Activates Hajj 1447 Arrival Preparations
Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports has begun reception services for the Hajj 1447H season. Saudi authorities have activated immigration and customs arrangements at airports and other entry points to welcome pilgrims arriving from Pakistan, Indonesia, and other countries.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior and Passports Directorate have publicly confirmed that Hajj 1447 entry systems and permit arrangements are active, with modern digital systems in place to speed up processing and improve crowd management.
Read: NADRA Notice for Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia During Hajj Season
Authorities have activated immigration counters across air, land, and sea routes. Saudi officials also said specially trained staff will remain available around the clock to guide pilgrims and reduce waiting times.
Both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are presenting this year’s operation as a coordinated logistical effort. Pakistan has directed pilgrims to use the Pak Hajj 2026 mobile app and official ministry channels for updates, while Saudi authorities say they are relying on advanced digital systems to ensure quick and seamless entry procedures.
That means the opening of Hajj 2026 is not just about the first flight. It also reflects a broader attempt to organise the pilgrimage journey from departure in Pakistan to arrival in Saudi Arabia.
