Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has initiated an investigation following an alarming incident where flight PK 306, traveling from Karachi to Lahore, landed at Allama Iqbal International Airport missing one of its rear tires.
A PIA spokesperson revealed that the issue happened during a routine inspection after the aircraft’s landing, confirming one rear tire’s absence. Over 14 hours after the plane’s arrival, authorities have not located the missing tire at either Karachi or Lahore airports.
The tire was verified intact when departing from Karachi, and the aircraft achieved a normal landing and taxiing at Lahore airport. Following a notification from Lahore’s Air Traffic Control (ATC), part of the tire’s shaft was found at Karachi airport, indicating where the separation likely occurred.
A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Airbus A320-214 aircraft with registration AP-BLS, safely landed on Runway 36R of the Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore despite missing one of its left MLG wheels, authorities revealed on Wednesday.
The incident involving flight… pic.twitter.com/vtPSCjJqwe
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) March 13, 2025The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) released a statement noting that preliminary assessments suggest the tire may have been dislodged by a possible external object striking the runway in Karachi.
The PIA Flight Safety Department is actively investigating this serious safety concern in collaboration with CAA. While a detailed report is pending, initial findings suggest that a runway fault or an external influence could have caused the wheel detachment.
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Despite the missing wheel, the aircraft managed a smooth and secure landing in Lahore. The plane’s design includes multiple safety features that ensure it can safely land even when such rare incidents occur.
PIA has dispatched a team to Lahore to investigate this unusual occurrence, and safety and aviation authorities have commenced inquiries to prevent future incidents and enhance flight safety protocols.
