A Karachi-bound flight was unable to land at Skardu airport due to adverse weather conditions and was subsequently diverted and landed in Islamabad.

According to a spokesperson for the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), flight PK-455 departed from Karachi

According to a spokesperson for the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), flight PK-455 departed from Karachi with a delay of approximately two and a half hours and reached Skardu around 11:00 AM. However, upon arrival, the weather conditions in Skardu were found to be unstable and unsuitable for landing.

The spokesperson further stated that due to poor weather and low visibility, the aircraft was unable to complete its landing at Skardu Airport. As a result, the flight was diverted to Islamabad as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety.

After landing in Islamabad, passengers remained inside the aircraft for approximately two and a half hours while airline and airport authorities assessed the situation and made alternative arrangements. During this time, passengers were informed about possible travel options depending on their final destination and operational decisions.

An airport manager confirmed that some passengers voluntarily disembarked at Islamabad Airport, choosing to end their journey there. Meanwhile, arrangements were made for the remaining passengers who intended to travel onward to Skardu or return to Karachi.

According to airline officials, passengers were given two options: either to disembark at Islamabad or to return to Karachi, depending on their travel preference and convenience. The airline ensured that passengers were kept informed throughout the process and were provided assistance regarding their onward travel plans.

For passengers who originally intended to continue their journey to Skardu, the airline announced that they would be accommodated on the next available flight scheduled for the following day. These passengers will be flown from Karachi to Skardu once weather conditions improve and operations resume safely.

Authorities emphasized that flight safety is always the top priority, and decisions regarding diversion or cancellation are made strictly based on weather assessments and aviation safety protocols. Skardu, being a mountainous region, is particularly prone to sudden weather changes, which often affect flight operations.

The Pakistan Airports Authority and airline representatives reiterated that all necessary steps were taken to ensure passenger safety and comfort during the disruption. They also expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to travelers and assured that efforts would be made to minimize delays in future operations.

Passengers were advised to stay in contact with the airline for updated flight schedules and rebooking arrangements. The situation highlights the challenges faced by air travel in northern regions of Pakistan, where weather conditions can change rapidly and impact flight schedules without prior warning.