Cargo Plane Crash in Hong Kong Kills Two Ground Workers

Tragic Runway Accident at Hong Kong International Airport

A Boeing 747 cargo aircraft operating as Emirates SkyCargo flight EK9788 skidded off the runway during landing at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday morning, resulting in the deaths of two ground workers and the total loss of the 32-year-old aircraft. The incident occurred around 3:50 a.m. local time on October 20, 2025, when the freighter arriving from Dubai veered left after touchdown on the north runway, collided with a security patrol vehicle, and plunged into the sea.

Details of the Fatal Accident

The aircraft, registered TC-ACF and operated by Turkish carrier Air ACT on behalf of Emirates, struck a ground-service vehicle positioned near the runway perimeter. 'Both security staff members were pulled from the water without breathing - one was certified dead at the scene and the other died later at the hospital,' confirmed airport authorities. The victims, aged 30 and 41, had worked at the airport for 7 and 12 years respectively, highlighting the tragic loss of experienced aviation professionals.

All four crew members on board the aircraft managed to escape safely via emergency slides and were hospitalized for observation. The aircraft, which had been converted from a passenger plane to a freighter, split into two sections during the accident and was declared a total loss. 'The aircraft was empty of cargo at the time of the incident,' stated an Emirates spokesperson in an official release.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

The Air Accident Investigation Authority has launched a comprehensive probe into the cause of the accident. Initial reports suggest wet runway conditions from overnight rain may have contributed to reduced braking effectiveness. 'We are examining all factors including weather conditions, runway surface conditions, and aircraft performance,' said an investigation official who requested anonymity.

Hong Kong International Airport, located on Chek Lap Kok island, features runways that extend into the sea, creating unique operational challenges. The airport is the world's busiest cargo gateway, handling millions of tons of freight annually. This incident marks the deadliest airport accident in Hong Kong since 1999.

Operational Impact and Industry Response

The northern runway where the accident occurred remains closed pending investigation, while the airport continues partial operations using its other two runways. At least 12 cargo flights have been canceled following the incident. 'Our immediate priority is supporting the families of our deceased colleagues and cooperating fully with the investigation,' stated the Airport Authority CEO.

Aviation safety experts have raised questions about ground personnel positioning near runway ends during landing operations. The incident involving the Boeing 747-400, a workhorse of global cargo operations, has drawn attention to the aging fleet of converted freighters and their operational safety. The aircraft involved was originally built in 1993 and converted to cargo configuration later in its service life.

Emirates, one of the world's largest cargo operators, has maintained a strong safety record until this incident. The airline has pledged full cooperation with investigators and has initiated its own internal safety review. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in aviation operations, particularly during critical phases like landing in challenging environmental conditions.