Islamabad, July 08 (QNA) - Pakistani authorities have launched a search and rescue operation after a Boeing 737 cargo aircraft carrying five crew members lost contact with air traffic control off the coast of Karachi following a reported navigation system malfunction.
The Pakistan Airports Authority said the aircraft, operated by K2 Airways, was en route to Karachi when it reported a navigation system problem late Tuesday before communications with air traffic controllers were lost. Preliminary flight-tracking data indicated the aircraft made erratic altitude changes before disappearing from radar over the Arabian Sea, raising fears it may have crashed into the water.
Authorities have mobilized a multi-agency search and rescue operation in the Sea to locate the missing aircraft and its crew.
As part of the operation, the Pakistan Navy has deployed the frigate PNS Zulfiqar, while the Pakistan Air Force is assisting with aerial search missions. Merchant vessels in the area have also been directed to support the search efforts.
The cause of the aircraft's disappearance has not been determined, and authorities said the search operation remains ongoing. (QNA)