Pakistan Approves Charter Flights for Pilgrims

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The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan has approved the operation of charter flights to Iran and Iraq, providing an alternative for religious pilgrims affected by the federal government’s recent suspension of road travel due to security threats.

The decision comes after the Ministry of Interior temporarily halted cross-border road travel for pilgrims, particularly during the months of Muharram and Arbaeen. This suspension was a precautionary measure to protect citizens amid concerns of sectarian violence and instability along routes passing through Balochistan. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the road ban and stated that it was necessary to ensure public safety.

In response, the CAA has issued an open invitation to all licensed charter air operators to submit applications to operate flights along these international routes. This move is intended to ease the burden on scheduled airlines, accommodate the rising number of pilgrims, and ensure safer travel conditions. The charter services are expected to support those traveling to significant religious destinations such as Karbala and Najaf in Iraq, and Mashhad in Iran.

According to the CAA, only operators with valid charter licenses and full compliance with aviation safety regulations will be permitted to operate flights. Applications will be reviewed based on the operator’s safety record and logistical readiness. No specific start date has been announced yet, as operators are still in the process of submitting service plans.

The introduction of air charter services is part of a broader coordination effort between the Ministry of Interior, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the CAA. The goal is to provide a safer and more reliable transport option during high-volume pilgrimage seasons. Officials stated that further operational guidelines, including airspace coordination and passenger handling procedures, will be released in collaboration with civil aviation authorities in Iran and Iraq.

Religious tour operators have welcomed the decision, noting that the road travel ban had created uncertainty and logistical challenges for pilgrims. Many companies had been unable to fulfill travel commitments due to the abrupt halt of overland routes. The new air travel option is expected to reduce congestion at land border crossings and improve the overall experience for travelers.

Authorities are also preparing to implement a new pilgrimage management system. The existing “Salar” model, which relies on individual group leaders, will be phased out by January 2026. A new “Zaireen Group Organiser” framework will be introduced to improve accountability and enhance the organization of religious travel.

The CAA emphasized that all chartered flights must strictly adhere to safety protocols and passenger regulations. Monitoring mechanisms will be established to ensure compliance throughout the pilgrimage season.

While road travel remains suspended, the approval of charter flight operations marks a significant step in ensuring the safety and mobility of Pakistani pilgrims. The government aims to provide more structured, secure, and efficient pilgrimage travel until the situation at border crossings stabilizes.