The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched a series of special flights to Najaf and Iraq to facilitate Shia pilgrims during the upcoming Ashura in Muharram, according to media reports.

The flight operation, dubbed “Operation Ashura,” started on July 5, with additional flights scheduled for July 7 and July 11.

Muharram is a month of mourning, observed in particular by Shia Muslims worldwide.

The community observes the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD, where amongst many, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Imam Husain, was martyred and other family members were martyred or subjected to humiliation.

PIA’s special flights would not only transport Shia pilgrims to Najaf but also ensure their safe return, they added.

The return flights are set to begin on July 20, with flights scheduled on July 21 and July 25 to bring pilgrims back from Najaf.

The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee announced that the first Muharram would fall on July 8 (Monday) as the Muharram moon was not sighted in the country on Saturday.