Karachi: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has successfully launched its post-Hajj operation with its first flight carrying 160 pilgrims landing in Karachi, state-run APP reported.

PIA District Manager Umar Khan Airport Manager Javed Pichoho and other officials welcomed pilgrims at Airport. National carrier’s other flight, PK-740, from Jeddah, arrived at Islamabad International Airport with 443 pilgrims. Earlier today, inaugural flight of Air Blue, PK-471 from Jeddah, with 190 pilgrims on board landed at Allama Iqbal International Airport. Second flight, carrying 150 pilgrims arrived. Director Hajj Punjab, Muhammad Rizwan Sharif and Deputy Director Hajj Lahore Mujeeb Shah, alongside Civil Aviation officials, greeted returning pilgrims, presenting them with bouquets in warm reception. Pilgrims praised government for well-organised arrangements made during their Hajj journey. According to officials, PIA’s post-Hajj operations will continue till July 21 to bring back over 35,000 pilgrims from Saudi Arabia through 171 flights. Flights will be operational for Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Sialkot and Peshawar.