Karachi: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Lahore to Karachi crashed near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, Pakistan media reported on Friday. Confirming the crash, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez said that Flight 8303 was carrying 90 passengers and eight crew members from Lahore to Karachi.
The damage, including casualties, is being ascertained. Pakistan PM Imran Khan expressed shock over the mishap.
The flight crashed into a residential area named Model Colony and was carrying 90 passengers, multiple agencies reported. Footage showed smoke rising from the site of the crash.
Sources report that the Pakistan Army Quick Reaction Force & Pakistan Rangers Sindh troops have arrived at the crash site to assist the civil administration in relief and rescue efforts. The plane has crash-landed inside a residential colony, near the airport, as per sources. The Pakistan Army’s COAS has directed the provision of full assistance to civil administration in rescue/ relief effort and has condoled the loss of lives in the crash.
Condoling the bereaved families of the victims of the PIA plane crash, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, on Friday, expressed his grief. He added that he was in touch with PIA CEO Arshad Malik who has left for Karachi with rescue and relief teams. He also assured that an immediate inquiry will be instituted, to ascertain the reason for the crash.
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
