After the tragic crash of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK 661 a week ago, the airline grounded all ATR aircraft so they could thoroughly inspect them. PIA had 10 of these aircraft, and a number of flights were suspended until further notice as a result. The Chairman of PIA Azam Saigol resigned a few days ago, citing “personal reasons,” though some sources said that the government wasn’t happy with the chairman following the crash.
Interestingly, it appears that flights from Islamabad (ISB) to Gilgit (GIL), which is usually operated by an ATR aircraft, will be resuming tomorrow. How, you ask? By using a plane from the Pakistan Air Force, apparently. According to a press release that was re-tweeted by PIA‘s official Twitter account:
On the directions of Government of Pakistan, PIA has obtained the services of a C-130 aircraft from Pakistan Air Force for resumption of flights to Gilgit. PK-605 would operate at 11 am instead of 7 am tomorrow. Passengers are requested to reach airport accordingly.
Pakistan Air Force C-130 Herculues in Kathmandu, Nepal. Photo by Staff Sgt. Melissa White, used with permission.
This is crazy town, and I don’t really know what to make of it. I suppose it’s a good thing that PIA is trying to resume service after a tragic accident. Still, using a military plane for passenger service is maybe a little bit extreme…
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2 comments
This is very Pakistani…if there is a problem, find the best solution as quickly as possible no matter how unusual/unorthodox it may seem.
Chitral needs to remain connected to the rest of the country during these winter months when snow blocks the road access.
Good that PIA has decided to ground all ATRs till a thorough shake down. Another occasion when nation’s armed forces have come to the help of their citizens.