Safety Investigation Board to probe PIA plane crash in Karachi.

Safety Investigation Board to probe PIA plane crash in Karachi, said Chief Executive Officer PIA Air Marshal (Retd.) Arshad Malik.

He said this, while addressing a news conference in Karachi.

Safety Investigation Board to probe PIA plane crash

He said Safety Investigation Board will hold thorough inquiry into the tragic incident of plane crash in Karachi.

Malik said cause of the incident will be ascertained after taking all factors into account for the investigation.

He said the crashed plane was technically fit for flying and there was no obvious reason of accident.

He said a plane is given clearance only after all technical checks are made.

The PIA CEO said landing of the plane is done after getting clearance from Civil Aviation Authority.

He further said the airplane of Airbus that crashed was totally fit and safe for flying.

He said PIA pilots are some of the best in the world and cabin crew was also qualified as well as inspection of the plane was regularly done.

Air Marshal Retd. Arshad Malik said rescue operation is goes on in full swing despite night time and technical difficulties of operating in residential area.

He said PIA has vacated its hotels in Karachi to house the relatives of the deceased.

Earlier, 54 deaths in PIA plane crash confirmed while more casualties feared.

According to health ministry spokeswoman Meeran Yousuf, fifty-four people have died.

However, they could hardly establish identity of three of the bodies so far.

Victims burnt or suffered extreme burn wounds; hence, medico-legal section and other concerned staff is trying level best for identification of the victims.

Officials conference said they were conducting DNA tests.

The plane was carrying nearly a hundred people, including passengers and crew.

Meanwhile, Dr Seemi Jamali of JPMC confirmed 35 bodies brought to Jinnah Hospital.

The flight PK-8303 had taken off from Lahore to Karachi.

Unfortunately, a technical fault led to crash minutes prior to landing at Jinnah International airport.