A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Dubai to Islamabad was significantly delayed after several passengers allegedly created a disturbance onboard, prompting intervention by Dubai authorities and resulting in multiple arrests.

According to available information, PIA flight PK212 experienced an extended delay on Friday due to regional security measures implemented at Dubai International Airport.

Airport authorities reportedly introduced a 10-minute interval between departing flights as a precautionary security measure, leaving the aircraft on the ground for nearly three and a half hours despite being ready for take-off. The flight had originally been scheduled to arrive in Islamabad at 8:40pm.

During the delay, passengers were served refreshments onboard. However, the situation reportedly escalated after the meal service when a number of passengers began behaving aggressively, disrupting the cabin environment.

Onboard disturbance prompts security response

According to reports, several passengers allegedly attempted to approach the cockpit, but cabin crew members intervened and prevented them from gaining access.

The disturbance intensified when one passenger allegedly damaged a window inside the aircraft, creating panic among those onboard and preventing the flight from departing.

The captain subsequently requested assistance from local authorities. Dubai security personnel boarded the aircraft after its doors were opened and detained the passengers accused of causing the disturbance.

Reports indicate that seven passengers were taken into custody following the incident.

Aircraft grounded for inspection

The reported damage to the aircraft, including the broken window, rendered it unfit for immediate operation, forcing it to be grounded for technical inspection.

The remaining passengers and crew were accommodated at a hotel while the prolonged delay caused the operating crew to exceed the maximum duty hours permitted under international aviation regulations.

As a result, the crew was stood down and a replacement team was arranged before the flight could resume.

Flight to resume after arrangements

According to available information, the aircraft is expected to depart for Islamabad or Karachi later in the evening once the required inspections and operational arrangements have been completed.

PIA had not issued an official statement on the incident despite repeated requests for comment at the time of filing this report.