A major aviation incident was narrowly averted on Thursday when an AirSial Boeing 747 aircraft suffered a bird strike during landing at Islamabad International Airport, resulting in severe engine damage.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, all passengers remained unharmed, and the aircraft successfully completed its landing despite the mid-air impact.
According to passengers Shahbaz and Hamza, the flight had originally departed from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, bound for Islamabad.
However, adverse weather conditions forced the aircraft to divert and land temporarily at Sialkot Airport. Once weather improved, the jet resumed its journey to Islamabad.
Upon final approach in Islamabad, a bird collided with the aircraft, causing 19 engine blades to break, technicians confirmed.
The airline has reportedly suffered damages exceeding Rs. 500 million due to the incident.
“The crew handled the situation calmly, and we landed safely. But the sound of impact was terrifying,” said passenger Shahbaz.
Airport technical teams have grounded the aircraft, and it will remain parked at the Islamabad terminal until replacement blades are imported from abroad, which could take days.
Parking charges and maintenance costs are expected to further add to the airline's burden, according to airport administration officials.
In response, passengers and crew have urged the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to implement effective wildlife hazard management strategies, especially around key airports, to prevent such incidents in the future.
“Bird activity around airports is a serious safety risk. Authorities must take concrete steps before lives are endangered,” added a concerned passenger.
Reporter: Mian Muhammad Ishfaq