The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Wednesday firmly denied media reports suggesting that a “major disaster” was narrowly avoided at Islamabad International Airport after a Saudia Airlines flight allegedly attempted to land on a closed runway. The authority clarified that the situation was nothing more than a standard, internationally recognised safety manoeuvre.
PAA Says Go-Around Was Routine and Safe
Earlier, several media outlets claimed that Saudia flight SV278 from Jeddah nearly landed on the wrong runway and was saved by timely instructions from air traffic control. The flight, scheduled to land at 4:05pm, eventually touched down at 5:13pm, according to flight tracking data.
In its official statement, the PAA explained that the incident involved flight SV728, not SV278. It said the manoeuvre carried out by the aircraft was a “go-around”, which is a safe and routine aviation procedure.
“A go-around is a standard and internationally practised safety measure,” the PAA stated, stressing that it was executed strictly according to established protocols. According to the US Federal Aviation Administration, a go-around is used to discontinue a landing and reposition the aircraft for another safe approach — a procedure performed by pilots worldwide.
The PAA reiterated that such actions are non-emergency manoeuvres and are part of normal aviation operations aimed at ensuring maximum safety.
Authority Urges Media to Avoid Sensationalism
The PAA also urged media organisations to avoid portraying routine aviation procedures as alarming incidents. It cautioned that sensational reporting may create unnecessary public concern and spread incorrect perceptions about aviation safety.
The authority emphasised that it values responsible journalism and considers the media an important partner in keeping travellers well-informed with verified facts.
Reaffirming its commitment to safety, the PAA said it remains dedicated to transparency and maintaining high operational standards across all airports in Pakistan.
