Plane Vanishes From Radar
A Boeing 737 cargo aircraft disappeared from radar screens early Thursday morning while approaching Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan. The plane, operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), was en route from the port city of Gwadar when contact was lost approximately 50 nautical miles from the airport, according to a statement from the Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan.
Two Crew Members On Board
The aircraft was carrying two crew members, both Pakistani nationals: Captain Ahmed Raza and First Officer Bilal Khan. No cargo manifest details have been released yet. Search and rescue operations have been launched, involving the Pakistan Navy, Army Aviation, and the Civil Aviation Authority. A PIA spokesperson said, 'We are in contact with the relevant authorities and are doing everything possible to locate the aircraft and its crew.'
Weather Conditions at Time of Disappearance
Weather reports indicate low visibility and heavy monsoon rains in the area at the time of the incident. The aircraft had taken off from Gwadar at 2:30 AM local time and was scheduled to land in Karachi at 4:00 AM. The last known communication from the crew was at 3:40 AM, reporting normal flight conditions before the plane disappeared from radar.
Search Operations Underway
Multiple vessels and aircraft have been deployed to search the Arabian Sea near the coast of Karachi. The Pakistan Navy has dispatched two ships and a helicopter, while the Army Aviation has provided additional aerial support. The Civil Aviation Authority has set up an emergency response center at Jinnah International Airport. According to a senior official, 'We are scanning a wide area, and all resources are being utilized to find any sign of the aircraft.'
Background of the Aircraft
The missing Boeing 737-400 was manufactured in 1993 and had been in service with PIA for cargo operations since 2005. It underwent its last major maintenance check in March 2026. The aircraft was originally built as a passenger plane but was converted to a freighter in 2004. Aviation safety experts note that the 737-400 series has a good safety record, but older aircraft require rigorous maintenance.
Previous Incidents Involving PIA
Pakistan International Airlines has faced several safety concerns in recent years, including a fatal crash in 2019 that killed 97 people. The airline has since implemented new safety protocols, but this latest incident raises questions about operational standards. The Pakistani government has ordered a full investigation into the disappearance.
International Response
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has been notified, and neighboring countries have offered assistance. The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has also offered to help with the investigation if needed. Families of the crew members have been informed and are awaiting further updates.
