Sialkot airport’s abandoned Boeing finally auctioned

SIALKOT: A Boeing 767 aircraft that had remained parked at Sialkot International Airport for nearly nine years has finally been auctioned for more than $400,000, bringing an end to a prolonged dispute over the abandoned aircraft.

The aircraft, previously operated by Fly Jinnah Asia Airways, had been standing at the airport since August 29, 2017. It remained grounded after the airline went bankrupt, leaving the aircraft unused and accumulating substantial outstanding dues.

The auction was conducted under court orders after the aircraft remained unclaimed for years. The minimum acceptable bid was set at $400,000 in the advertisement issued for the auction.

The sale is expected to help recover hundreds of thousands of dollars in outstanding charges accumulated during the aircraft’s extended stay at the airport.

Despite being grounded for several years, several major components of the Boeing 767 were reportedly still in good condition. Its engines, passenger seats and landing gear were among the parts described as being intact.

The aircraft had previously been used for charter flight operations before becoming stranded at Sialkot airport following the airline’s financial collapse.

Sialkot International Airport spokesperson Muhammad Umair Khan confirmed the auction, bringing the long-standing matter to a close.

The aircraft’s auction marks the end of a nine-year wait during which it remained parked at the airport, occupying space and accumulating financial liabilities.