On January 17, 2025, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) pilot mistakenly landed a flight on an unlit runway at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE). The incident has reignited concerns about safety protocols at the struggling national carrier.
The Airbus A320 with registration AP-BON was operating flight PK150 from Dammam (DMM) to Multan (MUX). Due to heavy fog in Multan, the crew decided to divert to Lahore, where it was cleared by air traffic control (ATC) to land on runway 36R. However, the crew erroneously touched down on runway 36L, which was deactivated and unlit at the time.
Following this incident, PIA management has grounded the captain and first officer involved, pending a detailed investigation. Heydar Aliyev International Airport activated emergency response protocols to handle the unexpected arrival.
A Troubled History of Safety Issues
This is not the first time PIA has been involved in an operational error. The airline has been embroiled in numerous controversies, including past reports of pilots holding fake licenses, overcrowded flights, and unorthodox maintenance practices. These incidents have severely impacted the airline’s global reputation.
PIA had only recently regained approval from international regulators to resume European operations after addressing previous safety concerns. This latest misstep could jeopardize the fragile recovery efforts as well.
Adding to the airline’s woes are financial difficulties, with PIA struggling to maintain basic operations, including securing jet fuel for its fleet. Privatization efforts by the Pakistani government aim to overhaul the organization but face fierce resistance from labor unions, leading to violent protests.
Aviation analysts have pointed to systemic issues within PIA, including poor cockpit resource management and a lack of comprehensive safety training.
Global Context: Similar Incidents in Aviation
Mistakes like this are not exclusive to Pakistan Airlines pilots. Globally, other carriers have faced similar runway-related issues. In 2024, Southwest Airlines departed from a closed runway in Portland, Maine, prompting a federal investigation. Moreover, British Airways and Air India have also experienced ground-related navigational errors in recent years.
These cases highlight the critical need for robust safety measures and pilot training, alongside the importance of adhering to protocols.
Editor’s Take: Pakistan Airlines Pilot
This latest incident involving PIA underscores the pressing need for organizational reforms, better training, and enhanced safety protocols. With mounting financial pressures and a history of operational missteps, the airline’s path to recovery appears fraught with challenges.
Moreover, ensuring safe flight operations must remain at the core of PIA’s strategy to restore passenger trust and secure its future in the competitive aviation industry.
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