Two Dead as Cargo Plane Crashes into Sea at Hong Kong Airport
BREAKING: A tragic incident at Hong Kong International Airport has left two security officers dead after a cargo plane skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea early this morning. The devastating event unfolded at around 3:50 a.m. local time on October 20, 2023, as a Boeing 747 cargo aircraft made its landing.
According to the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, the plane deviated from the North Runway upon landing, crashing through safety fencing before colliding with a security patrol vehicle stationed nearby. The collision was so forceful that it pushed the vehicle into the water. Tragically, one officer was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries at a hospital shortly after.
During a press conference, Steven Yiu Siu-Chung, executive director for airport operations, confirmed that the patrol car was positioned safely away from the runway at the time of the accident, stating it was “definitely not on the runway.” The two deceased officers had dedicated seven and twelve years to their roles at the airport, underscoring the profound loss to the community.
Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying 213 firefighters and 45 emergency vehicles to the scene. Four crew members aboard the cargo plane were rescued and transported to a local hospital, with their conditions being closely monitored.
Despite the severity of the incident, operations at the airport continue, with the south and center runways remaining open. Authorities assure that the more than 1,000 flights scheduled for today will not be impacted, although the North Runway will remain closed as the investigation unfolds.
Photographs from the scene reveal the cargo plane’s fuselage in disarray, with significant damage and fragments scattered in the water. The aircraft was en route from Al Maktoum International Airport when the incident occurred.
Emirates Airlines, the operator of the cargo flight, confirmed that all crew members are safe and reported that there was no cargo on board at the time of the accident. The Hong Kong Airport Authority is currently leading an investigation to determine the exact cause of this tragic event.
This incident marks a somber moment for the aviation community and highlights the risks faced by security personnel in ensuring safe airport operations. As the investigation continues, updates will be provided, and the emotional toll on the families of the victims cannot be overstated. Stay tuned for further developments on this urgent story.
