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Cargo Plane Skids into Sea at Hong Kong Airport, Two Airport Staff Killed
Hong Kong International Airport experienced a tragic incident early Monday morning when an Emirates Boeing 747 cargo plane veered off the runway and into the sea upon arrival. The accident, occurring around 4 a.m. local time, resulted in the deaths of two airport security personnel.
Authorities report that the two men, longtime employees of the airport, were in a patrol car that also fell off the runway at the same time as the aircraft. Police suspect the plane struck their vehicle.
The car, submerged over 22 feet deep and approximately 16 feet from the embankment, tragically claimed the lives of both individuals. One was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
All four crew members aboard the cargo plane were rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment.
According to the Hong Kong Airport Authority, both weather conditions and the runway were deemed safe for operation at the time of the incident. The cargo plane, which had originated from Dubai, did not report any issues before unexpectedly veering left midway down the north runway, crashing through the perimeter fencing, and ultimately entering the water. FlightRadar24 data indicates the aircraft was traveling at approximately 49 knots upon impact with the water.
Rescue operations were immediately initiated, and the Airport Emergency Centre has been activated. As a result, the airport’s north runway remains closed.