A Karachi cargo plane crash has triggered a large-scale search and rescue operation after a K-2 Airways cargo aircraft traveling from Sharjah disappeared over the Arabian Sea. Pakistani aviation authorities confirmed the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control before reportedly crashing into the sea near Ormara, with five crew members on board.
The Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) said the Boeing 737 cargo aircraft was flying to Karachi when communication was lost at around 9:21 pm PST. Officials said the aircraft disappeared approximately 155 nautical miles west of Karachi after reporting a technical problem involving its navigational system.
Karachi Cargo Plane Crash Sparks Major Rescue Effort
After losing contact, the Rescue Coordination Centre launched an emergency response. It brought together several maritime and aviation agencies.
Search teams later found wreckage 53 nautical miles south of Ormara. They continue to search for the five missing crew members.
K2 Airways identified the pilots as Captain Muhammad Rizwan Idris and First Officer Faisal Jatoi.
Aircraft Reported a Navigation System Problem
The flight crew informed air traffic controllers about a navigation system fault before contact ended.
Controllers immediately guided the aircraft. Minutes later, radar showed a rapid descent and a sharp change in direction.
Investigators will examine these events after recovering more evidence, including the aircraft’s flight recorders.
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Navy and Air Force Join Search Mission
Pakistan’s military and the maritime agencies launched a coordinated search across the affected area.
The Pakistan Navy sent PNS Zulfiquar to the search area. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Air Force deployed a Saab aircraft from Bholari Airbase for aerial support.
The Pakistan Navy also deployed an ATR aircraft from Turbat. Pakistan National Shipping Corporation sent the MT Lahore oil tanker to assist rescue teams at sea.
Authorities continue searching for the five missing crew members and the aircraft’s main fuselage.
