Saudi Plane Transfer to Hyderabad for Training

The story of the Saudi Arabian plane that crash-landed at Karachi airport is one that has lingered in the minds of many for over a decade. This aircraft, which made an emergency landing on December 25, 2011, due to a malfunction, is finally set to embark on a new journey. After being idle for nearly 13 years, the plane will be transported to Hyderabad for training purposes, marking a significant step in its long and storied history.

On November 21, 2024, the aircraft will be moved from Karachi to Hyderabad via the National Highway. The transportation will take place in the early hours to minimize traffic disruption. A specialized moving company has been contracted for this task, utilizing the longest available trailer equipped with advanced German technology to handle the 60-tonne, 160-foot aircraft. The route will take the plane through Malir National Highway, passing through Gharo and Thatta, before arriving at the Pakistan Aviation Authority's (PAA) training facility.

Project Director Munir Alam has confirmed that all necessary no-objection certificates (NOCs) have been secured from the relevant authorities, ensuring that the transfer can proceed smoothly. To further facilitate the journey, the aircraft has been divided into two parts, which will help in managing traffic flow during the move.

This transfer is not the first of its kind; it follows the recent relocation of a Boeing aircraft to the PAA’s Civil Aviation Training Institute (CATI) in Hyderabad. The MD 83 aircraft, which was previously used by a Saudi Arabian prince, had to make an emergency landing while traveling from Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, to Quetta. Fortunately, after three attempts, an expert pilot managed to land the plane safely at Karachi airport, with all 72 crew members and employees unharmed.

As the aircraft prepares for its new role in training future aviation professionals, it symbolizes resilience and the importance of learning from past experiences. The move not only breathes new life into a once-idle plane but also serves as a reminder of the critical role that aviation plays in connecting people and places. With this transfer, the PAA aims to enhance its training capabilities, ensuring that the next generation of pilots and aviation experts are well-equipped for the challenges ahead.