Hong Kong – October 19, 2025 – In a tragic aviation accident early Monday morning, a cargo plane skidded off the runway at Hong Kong International Airport, ultimately crashing into the sea and claiming the lives of two ground staff members. The Emirates flight EK9788, arriving from Dubai, lost control as it landed around 03:50 local time (19:50 GMT), leading to a fatal collision with an airport patrol vehicle.
What Happened
Emirates flight EK9788, a Boeing 747-481 cargo aircraft operated by Turkish carrier Act Airlines, veered off the runway as it was arriving from Dubai. According to airport officials, the aircraft turned unexpectedly toward the sea after landing, crashing through the runway fencing before colliding with the airport patrol vehicle. The force of the impact sent the vehicle into the sea, where divers later recovered the bodies of the two ground staff members inside.
The crash marks one of the deadliest incidents at Hong Kong’s international airport in years. While the four crew members aboard the plane survived the incident, questions remain over the path taken by the plane during its landing, as officials stress that the aircraft was not supposed to turn towards the sea. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Who Were the Victims?
The two deceased ground staff were both long-time employees at Hong Kong International Airport. The victims, aged 30 and 41, had seven and 12 years of experience in their roles, respectively. Airport officials have expressed their deepest condolences to their families and commended the victims for their years of dedicated service.
In a statement, Hong Kong’s transport bureau stated it was “saddened” by the tragic loss and extended heartfelt sympathy to the families of the two workers. As the investigation into the incident continues, the identities of the victims have not been publicly disclosed by officials.
Investigation and Response
Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash, with the Hong Kong Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) leading the effort. At this stage, the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, also known as the black boxes, have not been located, though search efforts continue. Investigators are examining the path of the aircraft and the exact circumstances leading to the crash.
Airport officials have confirmed that the correct landing instructions were provided to the plane and that the runway is clearly marked with signs for guiding incoming aircraft. Steven Yiu, Executive Director of Airport Operations, explained that the patrol vehicle was traveling outside the fenced area of the runway and was at a safe distance when the incident occurred.
“It’s normal for a plane to land in the direction away from the sea. In this case, however, the plane inexplicably turned toward the water,” Mr. Yiu said. “At no point did the patrol vehicle enter the runway area.”
Emergency services responded swiftly, with fire service teams reaching the crash site within two minutes of the incident. Four crew members aboard the plane opened emergency doors shortly after the crash, and all were rescued by authorities.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The aviation community and Hong Kong residents have expressed their shock and sadness at the loss of two airport workers. On social media, many have shared their thoughts and condolences, praising the victims for their dedicated work and sending support to their families. Some also expressed their gratitude for the swift response by emergency teams, which helped ensure the safety of the crew members.
Aviation experts have also raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the crash, with many questioning how the plane could have veered off course and turned toward the sea. The incident has reignited discussions about airport safety measures and the need for thorough investigations following such accidents.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
Hong Kong International Airport has confirmed that the affected runway would remain closed for the remainder of the day, though the airport’s other two runways are operational. The closure has caused at least 11 cargo flights to be canceled, disrupting some air traffic.
An official from Emirates, the airline operating the flight, expressed relief that the crew members were unharmed, stating, “The crew are confirmed to be safe, and there was no cargo onboard.” However, the airline did confirm that the plane sustained damage during landing.
In light of the investigation, airport officials have stressed the importance of learning from this incident and enhancing safety measures to prevent future accidents. The Hong Kong Air Accident Investigation Authority has also assured the public that criminal investigations will not be ruled out if necessary.
Closing
As authorities continue their search for the black boxes and investigate the cause of the crash, the aviation community remains on edge, hoping to uncover the truth behind this deadly incident. The loss of two dedicated ground staff members has left a mark on the airport and the city of Hong Kong, and the investigation is expected to provide further answers in the coming days.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
