Pakistanis allowed to return from Afghanistan without PCR test negative

The Civil Aviation Administration said in a statement on Sunday that it has obtained special permission to allow Pakistanis to return from Afghanistan without requiring a mandatory PCR test negative for the coronavirus.

“As informed by our mission in Kabul, the current situation in Afghanistan requires immediate repatriation of Pakistani nationals residing in Afghanistan,” the Civil Aviation Administration said in a statement.

It said that “in view of the limited time,” it was decided to allow Pakistani travelers to arrive without compulsory PCR test results being negative, which is usually done within 72 hours before starting to travel to Pakistan.

This rule will continue to apply to all direct flights between Kabul and Islamabad up to 2359 hours on August 18, 2021.

“However, this approval must strictly comply with other regulations of popular standard operating procedures related to inbound travel in Pakistan, including rapid antigen testing, PCR testing and any other regulations enforced by relevant health authorities upon arrival in Pakistan,” the notice said.

This means that on arrival, passengers will undergo all tests enforced by health authorities and strictly follow safety measures.

Special PIA flights on August 16, 17 and 18

According to sources, Pakistan International Airlines will open special flights between Kabul and Islamabad on August 16, 17 and 18 to facilitate Pakistanis stranded in Afghanistan. Geographic News.

The source said that PIA will operate Boeing 777 flights and added that the airline has sought permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Afghanistan in this regard.

At the same time, PIA is already operating Airbus 320 flight to Afghanistan.