PCAA grants approval to charter flights for pilgrims from
Pakistan to Iran, Iraq
In a noteworthy development aimed at enhancing travel safety and convenience for religious pilgrims, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) has announced the approval of chartered flights from Pakistan to Iran and Iraq.
This initiative comes in response to the federal government’s recent ban on overland travel to these countries, citing increasing security concerns for pilgrims.
The PCAA issued an official notice inviting licensed air charter operators to submit their applications to operate flights to the two nations. These charter services are intended to accommodate the large number of Pakistani pilgrims undertaking religious journeys annually, particularly during Arbaeen in Iraq and other significant events in Iran.
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The authority emphasized that applications related to religious tourism will be prioritized in processing, and assured that close coordination with relevant departments will ensure that pilgrims receive safe, comfortable, and punctual air travel during this busy pilgrimage season.
Earlier this year, the government prohibited road-based pilgrimages to Iran and Iraq to prevent potential threats along traditional land routes. The move to facilitate charter flights is seen as a safer alternative, allowing pilgrims to continue their religious commitments without risking their safety on hazardous overland journeys.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed the government’s stance via social media, stating that only air travel will be permitted for pilgrims heading to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen this year, explicitly banning overland routes.
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The decision has been met with positive reactions from religious tour operators, who see it as a crucial step toward safer, faster travel options. With the availability of charter flights, operators are expected to mobilize quickly, helping thousands of pilgrims undertake their religious obligations securely and efficiently.
Source: Daily Times