SIALKOT: A Boeing 767 that remained parked at Sialkot International Airport for nearly nine years has been sold through an auction for more than $400,000.

The aircraft had been grounded since August 29, 2017, after its previous operator reportedly faced financial difficulties and ceased operations.

Sources said the plane was previously operated by Fly Jet Asia Airways for charter services. However, the airline’s reported financial collapse left the aircraft at the airport.

Its prolonged presence resulted in outstanding airport charges and other unresolved financial obligations.

The auction has now provided a way to settle the long-standing matter and recover outstanding dues.

According to available information, authorities arranged the sale following court orders after the aircraft was declared unserviceable.

The reserve price was reportedly set at $400,000. The successful bid exceeded this amount, although the exact final price has not been disclosed.

Sources also said that millions of rupees in outstanding dues were recovered through the auction.

Despite being declared unserviceable, several components of the Boeing 767 were reportedly still functional.

These included its engines, passenger seats and landing gear. Their condition may have contributed to the aircraft’s auction value.

Aircraft that can no longer operate commercially may still contain components suitable for recovery or other uses. However, there is no confirmed information about the successful bidder’s plans for the aircraft.

Muhammad Umair Khan, spokesperson for Sialkot International Airport, confirmed the auction of the abandoned aircraft.

The plane had remained grounded at the airport for almost nine years without returning to commercial operations.

Maintaining an aircraft requires regular inspections, technical servicing and proper storage conditions. Prolonged inactivity can make returning an aircraft to service difficult and expensive.

The case also highlights the financial problems airports can face when airlines stop operating while leaving aircraft and unpaid charges behind.

With the auction completed, authorities have taken a major step towards resolving the long-running issue.

In other news read more about: Boeing 767 Finally Sold After Sitting at Sialkot Airport for 9 Years

The sale brings an end to nearly nine years of uncertainty surrounding the abandoned Boeing 767 at Sialkot International Airport.