KARACHI: An international deep-sea search and salvage team is expected to arrive in Pakistan between mid-to-late August to investigate the tragic crash of the K2 Airways cargo aircraft.
Equipped with advanced technology—including diving bells, air bags, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and specialized gear—the team will conduct a high-complexity salvage operation in the deep sea. Sources estimate that the search for the aircraft’s crew, engines, fuselage, and black box will cost approximately $10 million (around PKR 2.78 billion). Aircraft manufacturing and insurance companies are also actively involved in uncovering the facts behind the incident.
Investigations revealed that the crashed cargo plane was owned by an Irish company and was operated on a dry lease by Raja Tariq and other shareholders. Under international regulations, insurance claim payouts will be directed to the Irish owner, while compensation will also be provided to the families of the victims.
Meanwhile, the plane’s owner, Tariq Raja—currently based in Dubai—has failed to appear before the investigative committee despite multiple summons, citing medical reasons. However, he has assured authorities that he will cooperate and participate in the proceedings via Zoom.
The Bureau of Aircraft Safety Investigation (BASI) is scheduled to submit an interim progress report on the crash to the Government of Pakistan during the first week of August.
