PIA Flight To Toronto Diverts To Karachi Due To Fault

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight destined for Toronto underwent diversion to Karachi due to a “technical fault” post-takeoff, as stated by PIA spokesperson Abdullah Khan. Departing from Islamabad late Friday, flight PK-781 encountered a “minor” technical issue, prompting the captain’s decision to return rather than proceed with the lengthy Atlantic Ocean crossing. Khan elucidated that Karachi was chosen for the return due to superior engineering facilities and spare parts availability.

PIA arranged for passengers’ return to Karachi along with provisions for food, transportation, and lodging. The rescheduled departure for Toronto is set for 1 pm on Saturday.

Read more: PIA Sale Pre-Qualification Process to Conclude by May-End

Pakistan plans to privatize the national airline by June or July to meet International Monetary Fund (IMF) stipulations, given PIA’s prolonged financial crisis. On Friday, the Ministry of Privatization disclosed interest from eight business entities seeking stakes in PIA.

This privatization initiative aligns with broader reforms aimed at revamping Pakistan’s public sector entities under a $3 billion short-term IMF loan package agreed upon last year, aimed at averting a sovereign debt default.