Pakistan International Airlines with 98 on board crashes near Karachi

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Airbus A320 has crashed in Karachi. The aircraft was carrying 98 on board including 91 passengers and 7 flight crew members. The aircraft was said to be enroute 

The aircraft involved, A320 with registry AP-BLD. Wikimedia

In a report from FlightGlobal, Pakistan’s prime minister, Imran Khan, has expressed shock over the incident which reportedly crashed in a residential area.

Flight PK8303 was operating a flight from Lahore to Jinnah International Airport. There are still no details on the cause and the status of those on board including those on the ground. However in a report from Simple Flying, a recording of the radio conversation has been shared on local Pakistani TV. In it, the pilot can be heard saying, “I have lost one engine, May Day, May Day.” The tower then informs him that both runways are available for landing. Shortly after, contact is lost.

The aircraft is a 15-year old A320 leased from GECAS since 2014. It flew for China Eastern Airlines prior.

Social media posts shows a chaotic scene at the crash area with extensive damage also on the buildings. Rescue workers made their way to the scene.

This is a developing story. Please stay tuned for updates.

#PIA plane crashed on Residential Area of Kaziamabad-Model Colony just opposite of Karachi Airport. initial news says 91 passengers were boarding in plane. pic.twitter.com/7jKSoBp6RT

— Javed Nayab Laghari (@JavedNLaghari) May 22, 2020

Lahore-Karachi bound PIA plane crashes near Malir Cantt. pic.twitter.com/4BbV6A5YR8

— Fazil Jamili (@faziljamili) May 22, 2020