An alleged fire scare gripped passengers and crew aboard Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Flight PK 746, en route from Jeddah to Sialkot, when the pilot detected a burning smell in the cabin at an altitude of 20,000 feet, shortly after take-off.
According to reports, the aircraft made an unscheduled but safe landing at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport earlier today.
Sources close to the incident reported that the pilot detected a burning scent within the cabin, shortly after the plane departed from Jeddah's King Abdulaziz International Airport at 10 a.m. local time.
In response to the incident, the pilot and crew swiftly initiated emergency protocols.
The aircraft was rerouted to Karachi for a thorough examination and crew change.
Upon landing at Karachi, passengers were immediately evacuated from the aircraft and transported to the airport lounge, where they were provided with refreshments and support while awaiting further instructions.
"The flight has been diverted to Karachi for a crew change as a precautionary measure," stated the PIA spokesperson, adding that "Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew members".
