The first flight carrying 468 pilgrims on board, as part of pre-Hajj operation would leave Benazir Bhutto International Airport for Saudi Arabia on Monday evening. The pre-Hajj flight operation will continue for one month as this year approximately 29,000 pilgrims would proceed from BBIAP for performing Hajj.
Pakistan International Airline (PIA) will operate 52 flights exclusively for transportation of pilgrims whereas the Saudi Arabian Airline will airlift 4,305 pilgrims on their regular scheduled flights.
The CAA management has claimed to have made all relevant arrangements for comfort of pilgrims while transiting through BBIAP. In this connection free of charge Porter service will be provided to the pilgrims besides efficient assistant through regular CAA staff supplemented by additional scouts.
As per CAA claims, adequate arrangements have been made for wearing of Ehram, Ablution, offering of prayers / Nawafil, separately for ladies and Gents. Necessary refreshments and eatable items are also available in Lounges as required. Furthermore, all CAA offices and other Departments and Agencies have been advised to provide maximum possible assistance to the pilgrims.
The security measures have been beefed up in co-ordination with ASF, Punjab Police and the Traffic wardens to avert any unpleasant occurrence.