Tragedy struck early Monday at Hong Kong International Airport when an Emirates cargo plane, flight EK9788, skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea, killing two ground staff members.
The Boeing 747, arriving from Dubai, veered off course at around 3:50 a.m. local time (7:50 p.m. GMT) while taxiing on the wet runway. The aircraft collided with a patrol vehicle before falling into waters beyond the tarmac.
Airport authorities confirmed that the two occupants of the patrol vehicle, both ground operations staff, died instantly from the impact. Emergency responders rescued the four crew members aboard the plane, all of whom sustained only minor injuries.
The Civil Aviation Department of Hong Kong has launched a full investigation into the incident. Preliminary reports indicate that adverse weather and potential mechanical failure may have contributed to the crash.
Airport Chief Executive, Raymond Chiu, described the incident as “one of the most harrowing aviation events in Hong Kong’s recent history,” extending condolences to the families of the deceased.
Operations on Runway 07R/25L were temporarily suspended to allow recovery and inspection, leading to flight delays and diversions.
Emirates Airlines confirmed the incident in a statement, pledging full cooperation with authorities during the ongoing investigation.
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