Two commercial planes narrowly escaped major accidents in separate near-miss incidents at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, raising serious concerns about air traffic safety and management.

What Happened

  • In the first incident, a domestic flight preparing for takeoff had to abort as another incoming aircraft was unexpectedly cleared to land on the same runway.
  • In a second event, a taxiing aircraft was almost struck by another plane during ground maneuvering due to a reported air traffic control miscommunication.
  • Pilots acted swiftly in both cases, averting potential disasters.

Aviation Authorities Respond

  • The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched a formal inquiry into both incidents.
  • Initial reports suggest lapses in air traffic coordination may have contributed to the dangerous situations.
  • Air traffic controllers involved in the near-miss incidents have been temporarily removed pending investigation.

Rising Concerns Over Airport Safety

  • Karachi airport is among Pakistan’s busiest, handling thousands of passengers daily.
  • Aviation experts are urging urgent upgrades to communication systems, improved staff training, and runway monitoring technology to prevent future incidents.
  • These events have triggered calls from the public and aviation professionals for stricter compliance with international safety standards.

Recommended Safety Measures

  1. Upgrade air traffic control systems with real-time alert technology.
  2. Provide regular simulation-based training for ATC staff.
  3. Implement double-verification protocols before runway clearance.
  4. Improve coordination between pilots and ground control during taxiing.
  5. Enforce stricter runway and approach path monitoring procedures.

The close calls at Karachi airport are a stark reminder of how quickly routine flights can turn into potential disasters. Prompt action from pilots and aviation personnel helped prevent tragedy, but the incidents call for immediate reforms in air traffic management.