UPDATE: A tragic accident at Hong Kong International Airport has claimed two lives after a cargo plane skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea. The incident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time on October 20, 2023.
Authorities report that a Boeing 747 cargo plane lost control while landing, crashing through fencing and colliding with an airport security patrol car. The impact sent the vehicle into the ocean, resulting in the deaths of two security officers who were inside. One was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital.
During a press conference, Steven Yiu Siu-Chung, executive director for Hong Kong’s airport operations, confirmed, “The flight deviated from the North Runway after landing and ditched into the sea.” He emphasized that the patrol car was operating safely, stating it was “definitely outside the fences” and on its designated route prior to the collision.
Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying 213 firefighters and 45 emergency vehicles to the scene. Four crew members aboard the cargo plane were rescued, receiving treatment at a local hospital, while the status of their injuries remains unclear.
Photos from the site reveal the plane’s wreckage scattered, with the tail section notably separated from the fuselage. The cargo plane had arrived in Hong Kong from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, and officials confirm there was no cargo on board at the time of the incident.
As of now, the North Runway is closed, but the South and Center runways remain operational, ensuring that over 1,000 flights scheduled at Hong Kong’s airport are unaffected. The airport authority has reassured the public that operations will continue without interruption.
The cause of this devastating incident is currently under investigation. Emirates Airlines, the operator of the cargo plane, expressed their condolences and confirmed that all crew members are safe.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with air travel and the critical importance of safety protocols at airports. As investigations continue, the airport community mourns the loss of dedicated security personnel who have served for years, with one officer having worked at the airport for 12 years and the other for 7 years.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
