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PIA Investigates After Flight Lands on Incorrect Runway

In an unusual aviation mishap, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched an investigation after flight PK 150, traveling from Dammam to Multan, mistakenly landed on the wrong runway. The incident has resulted in the grounding of the flight’s captain and first officer as the airline looks into the matter.

The aircraft was initially diverted to Lahore Airport due to adverse weather conditions, including dense fog in Multan, making it unsafe to land there. However, instead of using the designated main runway at Lahore, the plane landed on runway 36L, where the runway lights were reportedly switched off at the time.

A PIA spokesperson confirmed that an inquiry has been initiated, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings. The airline emphasized its commitment to safety and accountability, underscoring the importance of adhering to aviation protocols.

Historical Perspective on Similar Incidents

Examples of similar aviation errors, both globally and within Pakistan, are presented below:

Year Airline Incident
2000 Singapore Airlines Attempted takeoff from a closed runway during a typhoon in Taiwan, leading to fatalities.
2006 Comair (USA) Took off from the wrong, shorter runway in Kentucky, resulting in a crash that killed 49 passengers.
2012 PIA A PIA flight overshot the runway in Lahore due to wet conditions. Fortunately, no casualties were reported.
2016 PIA A PIA ATR-42 aircraft crashed en route to Islamabad due to engine failure, raising concerns over maintenance and safety protocols.
2019 Delta Airlines (USA) Landed on the wrong runway in Atlanta, Georgia. Visibility issues and confusion during communication contributed to the error.
2020 PIA A PIA Airbus A320 crashed in Karachi due to a botched landing attempt. Poor decision-making during approach was highlighted in the inquiry.


PIA’s Legacy and Challenges

Once a pioneer in global aviation, PIA played a key role in shaping the airline industry, including helping establish Emirates Airlines and being one of Asia’s first operators of Boeing 707s. However, recent decades have seen the airline plagued by financial difficulties, operational lapses, and declining public trust.

The PK 150 incident underscores the need for stringent safety protocols, regular training, and operational vigilance. These measures are essential to restoring confidence in the airline and preventing such errors in the future.

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