PIA Releases Hajj Flight Schedule and Fares for 2023, Private Scheme Costs Up to $1180

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has recently announced the hajj flight schedule and private haj fares for hajj 2023. The airline stated that those participating in the private scheme for hajj will need to pay hefty fares ranging between $870 to $1180. These fares will be paid in Pakistani currency equivalent to US dollars.

The hajj operation is set to begin on May 21, 2023, and will end on August 2. The PIA has set haj operation fares keeping in mind the north and south regions. Flights for hajj from Pakistan to Jeddah and Madinah will be available from May 21 to August 2. Pilgrims in executive and economy class will be allowed to carry 46 kg of baggage and 7 kg of hand carry.

The Minister for Religious Affairs, Mufti Abdul Shakoor, discussed the hajj policy 2023, sponsorship scheme, payment of foreign currency in Saudi Arabia, and Fata reforms with Finance Minister Ishaq Dar in a meeting held on Saturday. Half of the quota for the hajj scheme sponsorship will be reserved while the other half will be allocated to those who intend to perform hajj under the regular or private hajj scheme.

Pakistani citizens applying for the regular hajj scheme will need to submit their applications at designated bank branches. The estimated cost of hajj expenses, based on the current dollar rate, is expected to be between PKRs 1.1-1.2 million. Following approval by the federal cabinet next week, the minister of religious affairs will formally announce the acceptance of hajj applications. Banks are expected to begin accepting applications from March 13th.

As the hajj operation is set to begin in May, many pilgrims have already started making preparations for their journey. However, the high fares of the private scheme have left many potential pilgrims struggling to meet the expenses.