Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-784, travelling from Toronto to Karachi, returned to Toronto shortly after takeoff. The aircraft received a fire alarm warning in its cargo compartment during the flight.
The captain immediately contacted Air Traffic Control after receiving the warning. He then requested permission to make an emergency landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport. After receiving clearance, the captain safely brought the aircraft back to the airport. All 130 passengers and crew members remained safe during the incident.
Engineering Team Inspects Aircraft
Following the aircraft’s return, PIA’s engineering team began examining it to determine the cause of the warning. Fire brigade personnel also inspected the cargo hold as part of the airport’s safety procedures.
The airline said the emergency response followed established safety protocols. No fire or smoke was immediately confirmed inside the aircraft.
Meanwhile, authorities shifted all 130 passengers from the aircraft to the airport’s passenger lounge. PIA also provided the passengers with the necessary assistance while technical teams assessed the aircraft. The airline will determine the flight’s next departure after engineers and fire safety officials complete their inspections.
PIA said further information about the flight’s departure would be shared once the aircraft receives technical clearance.
The incident prompted an emergency response at Toronto Airport but did not result in any reported injuries. The safe return of the aircraft also allowed passengers and crew to leave without further complications. PIA reiterated that passenger safety remains its top priority. The airline is now awaiting clearance from its engineering and fire safety teams before resuming the Karachi-bound flight.
