UPDATE: A tragic accident at Hong Kong International Airport has left two security officers dead after a cargo plane skidded off the runway and crashed into the sea. The incident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time on October 20, 2023.
According to the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, the Boeing 747 cargo plane deviated from the north runway during landing, colliding with an airport security patrol car. The security vehicle was pushed into the water upon impact. Steven Yiu Siu-Chung, executive director for airport operations, confirmed during a press conference that the patrol car was stationed a safe distance from the runway, patrolling the northern coast.
One officer was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital. Both officers had dedicated years of service to the airport, with tenures of 12 years and 7 years respectively. This devastating loss has sent shockwaves through the airport community.
Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying 213 firefighters and emergency personnel, along with 45 vehicles and ships. Four crew members aboard the cargo plane were rescued and taken to the hospital, and all are reported to be safe. The plane was arriving from Al Maktoum International Airport with no cargo on board.
Visuals from the scene show the aircraft severely damaged, with the tail section detached from the fuselage. The north runway remains closed as investigations are underway, while the south and center runways continue to operate normally. Airport officials confirmed that over 1,000 flights scheduled for today will not be affected.
Emirates has acknowledged the incident, indicating that the crew members are “confirmed to be safe.” The situation is developing, and officials are working diligently to uncover the details surrounding this tragic event.
As the investigation unfolds, the airport authority will provide updates. This incident underscores the risks faced by airport personnel and the importance of stringent safety measures in aviation operations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
