Pakistan plane crash kills all 21 on board
A charter plane has crashed near Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi, shortly after take-off killing all 21 people on board.
By Rob Crilly, Sukkur
Published: 10:53AM GMT 05 Nov 2010
Pakistani officials and soldiers examine the site of a plane crash in Karachi, Pakistan Photo: AP
The Beechcraft 1900C aeroplane was flying staff of an Italian oil company to begin their shift at the Bhitshah oilfield. Aviation officials said the pilot had reported engine trouble and been advised to return to Karachi. Lt col Noor Alam, one of the rescue team, said the nose of the plane had to be cut away to remove the bodies.
“The plane has been destroyed,” he said. “The dead bodies are burned beyond recognition. It could not be recognised whether they are men or women.” The victims are believed to be Pakistani staff of the oil company ENI along with one foreign national.
A representative of the charter company, JS Air, said the pilot was experienced and the Beech 1900C adhered to safety standa Pakistan has a checkered aviation history. In July, 152 people died when a passenger plane crashed into hills near Islamabad in bad weather.
