Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plane has crashed near Model Colony Karachi, which flew from Lahore to Karachi.
Reportedly, around 99 passengers 8 crew members were on board Airbus 320 but there are no reports on how many have survived. There were two pilots and 3 cabin members at least on the airplane.
The airplane was reportedly a A320 which can carry at least 100 people has crashed in Jinnah Garden near Karachi airport. It is being said that it fell in residential area and some houses were also hit.
https://youtu.be/25cNknG8UIw
There are reports that at least five homes and some vehicles have been destroyed during the crash incident.
Rescue officials and law enforcement agencies have reached the crash site and started rescue operation. Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has declared an emergency at the airport after the incident.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has offered condolences for the families of the victims and has ordered an investigation into the incident.
Shocked & saddened by the PIA crash. Am in touch with PIA CEO Arshad Malik, who has left for Karachi & with the rescue & relief teams on ground as this is the priority right now. Immediate inquiry will be instituted. Prayers & condolences go to families of the deceased.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) May 22, 2020
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PIA Chief Air Marshal Arshad Malik in a video statement said that he was going to investigate the matter. He said pilot’s last conversation with air traffic controller hints that there was a technical fault in the plane.
https://youtu.be/M0_KppWmymo
In audio recording the pilot said that one of the plane’s engine is broken down. In his words he called the situation “may day! may day!,” during his conversation with the air traffic controller.
Army Quick Reaction Force (QRF) & Pakistan Rangers Sindh troops reached incident site for relief and rescue efforts alongside civil administration.
A fire broke out after the plane crashed and the fire brigade is at the scene to extinguish the plane.
Update #PIA Incident:
Army Quick Reaction Force & Pakistan Rangers Sindh troops reached incident site for relief and rescue efforts alongside civil administration.
Details to follow.— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) May 22, 2020
The plane was about to land at the Karachi airport. The flight number is PK-8303. The aviation division has confirmed the crash and said it was an A-320.
PIA spokesperson, Abdul Sattar said “Saying anything right now would be premature. Our crew is trained to handle emergency landings. All my prayers are with the families. We will continue to provide information in a transparent manner.”
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The A320 is one aircraft in four sizes (A318, A319, A320 and A321), representing the most successful and versatile jetliner family ever.
Sind government’s Minister of Health & Population Welfare has declared emergency in all major hospitals of Karachi due to the plane crash.