A video circulating widely on social media has sparked confusion after claiming that Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA) new owner, Arif Habib, announced a 50% discount on Hajj and Umrah tickets.
The clip gained traction after being shared on X (formerly Twitter) by PML-N London leader Waheed Nazir, who wrote in Urdu that PIA’s name would not be changed and that poor citizens would be offered Umrah packages every year.
However, the claim is not true.
The Verdict: The Video Is an AI Deepfake
The viral clip is AI-generated and does not represent a real announcement by Arif Habib or PIA. The video features a hyper-realistic digital version of Habib seated in what appears to be a PIA cockpit, delivering statements that blend corporate language with populist promises.
Soon after the video went viral, social media users pointed out several clear signs of AI manipulation, including unnatural facial movements, inconsistent lip sync, and overly polished visuals. Many users openly labeled the clip a deepfake, while others treated it as satire.
No Official Announcement
To date, there has been no official statement from:
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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
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The Arif Habib–led consortium
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The Government of Pakistan
confirming any 50% discount on Hajj or Umrah tickets, free Umrah packages, or similar subsidies linked to PIA’s ownership or privatization.
All such claims currently exist only within the viral video, which has no factual basis.
Why This Matters
The incident highlights growing concerns around AI-generated misinformation, especially when realistic videos are used to spread false policy or welfare claims. Experts warn users to verify information through official sources before sharing viral content.
For now, the promise of discounted Hajj and Umrah tickets remains fiction, not policy.
