Flight PA 470, an Airbus A320 operated by a private airline, departed Lahore but developed a technical fault mid-air, prompting the pilot to divert and land in Karachi as a safety precaution, as per aviation sources.

Authorities relocated the Umrah pilgrims to a nearby hotel, deeming the aircraft unfit for further flight after the unscheduled landing. A replacement plane to continue the journey was arranged by the airline.

Later that night, the replacement aircraft took off from Karachi but encountered a bird strike shortly after departure. An emergency landing back at Karachi was carried out as a precautionary measure by the pilot after he promptly informed the Air Traffic Control (ATC). This aircraft also remained grounded thereafter.

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Airline officials confirmed both incidents, emphasizing that all standard safety protocols were followed. Although both situations were resolved without injuries, ongoing investigations and inspections of both planes are underway.

Passengers were reportedly calm throughout both emergency procedures, and no injuries or casualties were reported. The double incident underscores the importance of in-flight safety checks, rapid decision-making, and effective contingency planning during charter operations—especially for pilgrim flights.