A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight, PK-300, traveling from Karachi to Islamabad, was forced to return to Karachi shortly after takeoff due to a technical fault, the airline confirmed.
According to a PIA spokesperson, the issue arose when the aircraft's landing gear failed to close after departure. The plane safely landed at Jinnah International Airport approximately 25 minutes after takeoff.
PIA's CEO Khurram Mushtaq was also on board the flight at the time of the incident.
"The safety of our passengers is our top priority," the spokesperson stated. "The aircraft will be replaced, and the passengers will be accommodated on an alternative flight shortly."
Passengers are currently waiting at the airport while the airline ensures their safe onward journey.