RAWALPINDI: The Bureau of Aircraft Safety Investigation Pakistan (Basip) has launched an investigation into the crash of a Cessna operated by Askari Flying Club near Islamabad International Airport on Saturday.

According to sources, the club’s training aircraft AP-BLO crashed a short distance from the airport. However, Capt Nouraiz and student pilot Ayesha Kiyani remained safe. The plane had barely taken off and was only 500 feet above ground when its engine failed, causing it to crash west of the airport.

Rescue teams reached the site shortly after the incident.

Following the crash, Basip initiated an investigation.

Sources said the wreckage is to be lifted and transported to Basip headquarters on Lehtrar Road, Rawalpindi.

The Islamabad International Airport manager has also been directed to facilitate the transportation of the wreckage.

Basip has further asked the club management and Islamabad International Airport manager to provide fuel samples from the bowser or barrels used to refuel the aircraft, along with the latest test report of fuel storage tanks. Samples from the aircraft’s own fuel tanks are also required. For this purpose, glass bottles are to be arranged, and the Islamabad International Airport manager has been tasked to supervise and facilitate the fuel collection process, the sources added.

An aviation expert said the flying club has an excellent safety record and training programme, noting that the cadet pilot had completed her ground schooling at the club. He added that the Cessna is recoverable and will soon be restored, as no serious damage occurred.

Published in Dawn, August 18th, 2025