Dubai: Pakistan-bound flight delayed after 'burning smell' detected

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight en route Dubai to Islamabad experienced a moment of concern when passengers reported a burning smell emanating from the food storage area.

Prompt action ensued as an emergency was declared, leading to the deployment of essential services, including fire brigade and ambulances, at Dubai Airport, Pakistani media reported on Saturday. In-flight smoke detection and the resulting delay in departure was confirmed by the PIA spokesperson to ARY news media.

Khaleej Times reached out to Dubai Airport and PIA for more details on the incident.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

Following a thorough examination by the flight crew, the aircraft was ultimately cleared for departure to Islamabad.

This incident occurred amidst the commencement of PIA's post-Haj flight operations, which started on May 9 and will extend until June 10, 2024. The airline is facilitating direct flights to Jeddah and Madina from eight cities across Pakistan, including Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, Quetta, Sialkot, and Sukkur, as reported by ARY News.

The spokesperson reiterated that PIA aims to serve approximately 34,000 pilgrims through 170 flights during this period, accommodating both government-sponsored and private pilgrims.

Notably, passengers commencing their journey from Karachi or Islamabad can benefit from Saudi immigration facilities at the airport, courtesy of the Road to Mecca Project.

• Dubai flights: More than 60 stranded Pakistanis fly home