Aviation News – A Dubai cargo flight crash at Hong Kong International Airport leaves two dead and several injured early Monday morning.
A cargo aircraft operated by Turkish carrier Air ACT overshot the runway and plunged into the sea at Hong Kong International Airport, killing two ground workers and injuring others. The incident occurred around 3:53 a.m. local time, prompting an emergency response and temporary disruption to airport operations.
According to local media and flight-tracking data, Emirates SkyCargo flight EK9788 had departed from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai before the Boeing 747-400 freighter veered off the airport’s north runway during landing. Reports from the South China Morning Post indicate the aircraft struck a ground service vehicle before coming to rest in the sea, pushing the vehicle into the water. Two workers aboard were confirmed dead, while four others were rescued and hospitalized.
The Boeing 747-400 freighter, a long-haul workhorse known for its heavy cargo capacity, was operating under a wet-lease agreement for Emirates SkyCargo. The cause of the runway excursion is under investigation, but early indications suggest possible weather or braking issues during landing.
An Emirates SkyCargo spokesperson expressed condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with the families of those affected, and we are cooperating fully with the authorities to determine the cause.”
The Civil Aviation Department of Hong Kong has launched a full investigation into the crash, with support from Turkish and Emirati aviation authorities. Safety checks and runway inspections are underway to ensure normal operations resume safely.
The tragic accident underscores the vital importance of strict ground coordination and landing safety protocols at one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs. Authorities are expected to release preliminary findings in the coming days as part of the international investigation.
Photo Jeroen Vogelaar
