New Air Route Announced for Pilgrims to Iraq and Iran
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) has called on licensed air charter operators to apply for special flights to Iran and Iraq, aiming to accommodate pilgrims during the upcoming Arbaeen and other religious events.
The move follows a federal decision to ban road travel for pilgrims, citing serious security threats along land routes. Pilgrims traveling to Karbala or Iranian religious sites will now have to rely entirely on air transport.
In its official statement, the PCAA said it would prioritize applications focused on religious tourism and assured that all necessary coordination would be made to guarantee safe and timely travel during the peak pilgrimage period.
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Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reiterated the policy in a social media post, stressing that the road ban remains in place for Arbaeen, and pilgrims should prepare for air travel only.
Religious travel operators have welcomed the government’s initiative, calling it a necessary step to protect lives while still enabling thousands to complete their spiritual journey.
They also highlighted that air travel reduces time spent in transit, especially for elderly and vulnerable passengers.
With this announcement, the aviation authority expects a quick response from licensed companies that are already active in chartered services or willing to expand into religious tourism.
