Hong Kong (October 20, 2025)— A tragic accident occurred early Monday morning at Hong Kong International Airport when a cargo plane skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea, leaving two people dead, according to local media reports.
The aircraft, identified as Emirates flight EK9788, a Boeing 747-481 operated by Turkish cargo airline Air ACT, was arriving from Dubai at around 3:50 a.m. local time (19:50 GMT) when it reportedly struck a ground vehicle on the airport’s north runway.
According to a statement from Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department, two ground staff members fell into the sea following the collision. Both were rescued but later died while undergoing treatment at a hospital, police told local broadcaster RTHK.
All four crew members aboard the cargo plane survived the crash and were taken to the hospital for medical evaluation.
Authorities immediately closed the affected north runway while the airport’s two other runways remain operational to handle ongoing air traffic.
Rescue efforts were swiftly launched, with helicopters from the Government Flying Service hovering over the site and Fire Services Department vessels joining in the operation.
The Airport Authority confirmed that at least 11 incoming cargo flights scheduled for Monday were canceled following the incident. Officials are expected to provide further details during a press conference at 10:00 a.m. local time (02:00 GMT).
This accident marks a rare tragedy for Hong Kong International Airport, which has long maintained a strong safety record and is known for its rigorous operational standards.
Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the accident.