A routine flight turned into a terrifying ordeal for passengers on board Karachi to Lahore Flight FL-842, as severe weather conditions forced an emergency go-around during landing at Allama Iqbal International Airport. What was supposed to be a short domestic journey quickly spiraled into chaos as violent winds and heavy rain engulfed the aircraft, triggering a Karachi-Lahore flight emergency.
Sudden Turn of Events During Landing
The private airline flight was nearing the end of its journey from Karachi to Lahore when disaster nearly struck. According to eyewitness accounts and airport sources, the descent into Lahore began smoothly. However, moments after the wheels touched the runway, a powerful storm slammed into the aircraft.
One passenger recounted the chilling experience:
“As soon as we landed, everything shook violently. Within seconds, the pilot pushed the throttle and we were airborne again—it was terrifying.”
The quick reflexes and training of the pilot prevented a catastrophe. The plane experienced extreme turbulence, with passengers describing sudden altitude drops and low visibility. For almost 10 minutes, the aircraft battled the storm, evoking sheer panic and helplessness among the passengers.
Pilot’s Brave Decision to Abort and Return
Recognizing the danger, the pilot made the bold but necessary call to abort the landing and head back to Karachi. Following coordination with air traffic control, the plane was safely rerouted.
Once the aircraft escaped the storm clouds and reached stable airspace, passengers reportedly burst into applause, tears, and prayers. This was more than just a rough landing—it was a narrow escape from potential disaster.
Back in Karachi, the aircraft was refueled and inspected, ready to attempt the journey again. However, over 50 passengers refused to board the second flight due to the emotional trauma they endured. Understandably, their fear overshadowed any immediate travel plans.
Widespread Disruptions at Lahore Airport
The Karachi-Lahore flight emergency was not the only fallout from the violent weather. The storm disrupted multiple operations across Lahore:
- A PIA flight from Islamabad was diverted to Karachi.
- Departures from Lahore were delayed, particularly those bound for Karachi.
- Flights resumed later in the night after weather conditions improved.
Meanwhile, ground-level destruction added to the city’s woes. Several neighborhoods experienced power outages due to downed lines, and public transport, including the Orange Line Metro Train, was temporarily suspended for safety reasons. Passengers were evacuated from metro stations to prevent accidents.
Casualties and Weather-Related Accidents in Punjab
The storm’s devastation extended beyond air travel. Across Punjab, torrential rains and high-speed winds claimed 14 lives and left over 100 injured. In Lahore, two young men were injured near Raiwind Road after a wall collapsed during the windstorm.
In response, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued urgent safety advisories. Residents were told to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors, and steer clear of electric poles and dilapidated structures during stormy weather.
A Wake-Up Call for Air Travel Safety
The Karachi-Lahore flight emergency serves as a stark reminder of how unpredictable weather can challenge even the most routine flights. Thankfully, the pilot’s professionalism and quick thinking ensured everyone returned safely.
Airlines and aviation authorities are now under pressure to enhance weather forecasting systems and ensure timely alerts to prevent such emergencies in the future. For the passengers of FL-842, however, it’s an experience they’ll likely never forget.