Bird strike forces PIA flight to return to Lahore Airport

A Karachi-bound Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-305 was forced to return shortly after take-off from Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIA) in Lahore, following a bird hit the plane, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Monday.

According to an airline spokesperson, flight PK-305 encountered a bird strike moments after taking off from Lahore Airport. The aircraft safely landed back at the airport, and all passengers remained unhurt.

Authorities are inspecting the aircraft, and arrangements are being made to accommodate affected passengers on alternative flights.

Officials noted that food outlets and residential colonies near the Lahore airport's approach paths have worsened the problem, as residents often keep pigeons and other birds.

A joint monitoring committee has been formed to curb such practices, and the Director General of PCAA has personally inspected multiple airports to oversee implementation.

The spokesperson added that tenders for installing modern bird detection and deterrent systems have been finalised, and the new technology will help significantly reduce the presence of birds within airport perimeters.

 Reporter: Saeed Ahmad