Pakistani authorities have initiated a search and rescue operation for a Boeing 737 cargo plane that lost contact with air traffic control off the coast of Karachi.

Context

The aircraft was carrying five crew members when it disappeared over the Arabian Sea, with flight data indicating it plunged vertically before losing contact.S2

Key points

• The Boeing 737 was on a cargo flight when it lost contact.S1

• The incident occurred off the coast of Karachi.S1

• Five crew members were aboard the aircraft at the time of the incident.S2

• Pakistani authorities are conducting a search and rescue operation.S1

• The aircraft is reported to have plunged vertically before disappearing.S2

• The search operation is focused on the Arabian Sea area.S1

• Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the incident.S1

• The missing aircraft is a Boeing 737 cargo plane.S2

Why it matters

• The incident raises concerns about aviation safety in the region.S1

• Search and rescue operations are critical for locating missing aircraft and crew.S2

What to watch

• Monitor updates on the search and rescue efforts by Pakistani authorities.S1

• Watch for any findings regarding the cause of the aircraft's disappearance.S2