A potential mid-air emergency was averted when a Fly Jinnah flight from Karachi to Lahore issued a ‘May Day’ distress signal on Monday evening after the crew reported smoke in the cargo compartment. The captain of flight FL 846 raised the alarm at 7:15 PM while the aircraft was descending towards Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIAP).
The situation was handled swiftly, and the aircraft successfully landed at 7:23 PM. Emergency response teams, including the airport’s Fire Department, had been mobilized as per protocol and were on standby to manage the potential risk. After a safe landing, all passengers and crew members were quickly evacuated via the emergency chute system.
Airport authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported. The fire department conducted a thorough inspection of the cargo area and declared the aircraft safe at 7:57 PM.
Investigation Underway Senior aviation officials have launched an investigation into the incident, and a Fly Jinnah technical team is examining the aircraft to identify the source of the smoke. The airline has assured passengers that their safety remains a top priority.
In an official statement, a spokesperson for Fly Jinnah said:
“Fly Jinnah confirms that flight 9P846 from Karachi to Lahore on September 23, 2024, experienced a smoke alarm indication in the cargo compartment upon landing in Lahore. In accordance with standard safety protocols, the flight crew followed procedures, notified the airport, and landed the aircraft safely. Our technical team is currently conducting a thorough inspection to identify the cause of the alarm.”
The spokesperson also expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the incident, emphasizing that passenger and crew safety remains the airline’s primary concern.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of well-executed safety procedures in the aviation industry. Passengers praised the professionalism of the crew and the swift response from the airport’s emergency teams.
No further disruptions to the airline’s schedule have been reported, and the investigation is ongoing.
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