The wreckage of a K2 Airways Boeing 737 has been located in the Arabian Sea following a 12-hour search and rescue operation. The cargo aircraft disappeared from radar approximately 80 minutes into its two-hour flight from Sharjah, UAE, to Karachi, Pakistan, on July 7.
Discovery of Wreckage
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) confirmed on July 8 that the wreckage was found more than 50 miles south of Ormara. According to the PAA, "after 12 hours of search and rescue operations in deep sea," efforts are now focused on locating the five missing crew members.
Pilot's Final Words
According to the Daily Star, the pilot's final communication indicated a potential struggle to maintain control. The pilot described the PNS Zulfiqar as "rolling or floating," which aviation experts interpret as a sign of a flight system malfunction. In aviation, "rolling" can indicate an unintended tilt, possibly due to flight control failure, severe turbulence, structural damage, or engine problems. "Floating" typically refers to a landing scenario where the aircraft remains airborne above the runway.
Sequence of Events
The Boeing 737, operated by Karachi-based K2 Airways, reported a navigation system issue at 9:18 PM local time, according to the Civil Aviation Authority. Pakistan's Airports Authority stated, "K2 Airways B 737 of Pakistan Cargo Flight enroute from Sharjah to Karachi reported Navigational system issue and was promptly guided by KARACHI ACC." Radar data showed the aircraft descending rapidly and making a sudden direction change at approximately 9:21 PM. Contact was lost 155 nautical miles west of Karachi.
Search and Recovery
The Pakistan Navy led the search operation, recovering the wreckage from the deep sea. Authorities continue to search for the missing crew members, though concerns persist for their safety.
