Overview of the Incident
On January 17, 2025, a serious safety oversight occurred when a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight, PK150, mistakenly landed on a closed runway at Lahore Airport. The runway’s lights were turned off, indicating it was not in operation. This flight, which was scheduled to travel from Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia to Multan Airport in Pakistan, had to be diverted to Lahore due to adverse weather conditions, including thick fog, at the intended destination.
Details of the Flight and Diversion
The Airbus A320-200, registered as AP-BON, departed from Dammam at 02:30 local time. Initially bound for Multan, the crew was informed of the deteriorating weather conditions, including low visibility due to fog, prompting a decision to reroute to Lahore where weather conditions were more favorable. However, upon approach to Lahore, instead of landing on the active runway 36R, which was fully lit and prepared for the landing, the aircraft landed on the parallel and non-operational runway 36L at 07:34 local time.
Immediate Aftermath and Safety Measures
Although the aircraft landed safely and taxied to the gate without incident, the error was immediately noted by air traffic control. The pilots involved were relieved of their duties pending a full investigation. This incident raises significant concerns about operational protocols and safety measures within the airline, especially considering the carrier’s history of safety lapses.
Impact on PIA’s Reputation and Operational Plans
The timing of this incident could not have been more critical for PIA. Just days earlier, the airline had resumed flights to Europe, starting with a much-publicized flight from Islamabad to Paris on January 10, 2025. PIA’s return to European skies was a significant milestone after being previously banned by the European Union’s aviation safety agency (EASA) due to safety concerns. This recent incident could potentially jeopardize PIA’s efforts to maintain and expand its international operations, which include plans to add flights to London-Heathrow, Manchester, and possibly Birmingham.
Historical Context of Safety Issues at PIA
PIA’s history with safety management has been troubled. Past issues have ranged from crews operating with dubious credentials to flights departing with more passengers than seats, and maintenance practices being called into question. The most notable was the crash of a PIA Airbus A320 on May 22, 2020, which resulted in 97 fatalities. This crash was a significant factor in the airline’s subsequent ban from EU airspace.
Looking Forward
As PIA aims to expand its fleet and network in 2025, ensuring rigorous safety standards and operational integrity is paramount. The airline boasts an on-time performance rate exceeding 90%, which is among the highest in Pakistan. However, maintaining this standard and improving safety protocols will be crucial for PIA’s successful reintegration into international markets and for building passenger trust.