A flight from Lahore to Jeddah was cancelled suddenly on Sunday, causing unrest among over 250 passengers. Many of these passengers were pilgrims preparing for Umrah.
Flight ER-821 was scheduled to depart from Lahore at 8:10 am. Passengers had already received their boarding passes and were waiting in the departure lounge when the airline announced a one-hour delay.
After waiting for more than three hours, the airline cancelled the flight without providing any explanation. This unexpected cancellation upset many pilgrims and other passengers.
Several pilgrims protested inside the airport terminal. Some argued with airline staff, while others staged a sit-in demanding quick arrangements for a new flight to Jeddah.
One pilgrim said, “The airline kept telling us the flight would take off soon, but then it was cancelled suddenly.” No immediate alternative flights or refunds were offered.
Videos from the terminal showed pilgrims sitting on the floor with their luggage. Many were chanting slogans against the airline’s management.
The airline later released a statement saying the flight was cancelled due to a technical fault found in Karachi on the plane assigned for this route. Repairs are currently underway.
The airline assured that passengers would be provided hotel accommodations and other necessary support if a replacement aircraft was not available soon.
No new departure schedule has been announced yet. Pilgrims remain stranded and are awaiting updates from the airline.
This cancellation has caused distress among pilgrims who had planned their journey carefully. Airport authorities and the airline are working to resolve the situation quickly.
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