Karachi: The missing wheel of a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight has been discovered near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, raising concerns over aircraft maintenance and safety protocols.
The incident occurred when PIA flight PK-306, an Airbus A320, took off from Karachi to Lahore. Upon landing at Allama Iqbal International Airport, a routine inspection revealed that one of the six wheels on the main landing gear was missing. Despite this alarming situation, the flight landed safely with 104 passengers on board.
Following an extensive search, the missing wheel was found near the remote parking bay of Karachi Airport, close to the Ispahani Hangar. Technicians discovered the detached wheel next to a grounded Boeing 777. Initial investigations suggest that the wheel may have detached during takeoff due to a possible mechanical fault or maintenance oversight.
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and PIA’s Flight Safety Department have launched an inquiry into the incident. Experts are examining whether pre-flight checks were properly conducted and whether any negligence was involved in the aircraft’s maintenance.
This incident has intensified scrutiny on PIA’s fleet maintenance, especially as the airline is already facing financial and operational challenges. The affected Airbus A320 is 18 years old, and PIA currently operates a fleet of 31 aircraft, including Airbus A320s, Boeing 777s, and ATRs.
Authorities have assured that a comprehensive safety review will be conducted to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
