LAHORE: An AirSial flight bound for Karachi from Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport experienced a bird collision shortly after takeoff. Aviation sources confirmed that the pilot swiftly responded to the emergency, safely landing the plane back at the airport.
Fortunately, the aircraft sustained only minor damage, and passengers were accommodated in the lounge while aircraft engineers conducted a thorough inspection. The flight is expected to resume shortly.
In a similar incident, Airblue Flight PA 171, traveling from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to Karachi, encountered a bird strike during its landing approach near Model Colony, Karachi.
The bird struck the plane’s windscreen, but the skilled pilot successfully landed the aircraft on the runway without further issues. Thankfully, all passengers and crew members emerged unharmed, and the aircraft was secured safely on the ground. Further checks are underway to assess any potential damage to the plane.
These incidents underscore the importance of vigilant bird management strategies at airports to minimize the risk of bird strikes, ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft.