Two Killed After 747 Cargo Plane Crashes Into Ocean Near Hong Kong
A Boeing 747 cargo plane arriving from Dubai crashed into the ocean near Hong Kong International Airport early Monday, killing at least two people and injuring several others. The aircraft, operating as Flight EK9788 on behalf of Emirates, was flown by Turkish cargo carrier ACT Airlines, which leases widebody freighters to major airlines.
According to Reuters and the BBC, the accident occurred just before 4 a.m. local time on October 20. The Emirates-branded freighter reportedly skidded off the runway after landing, striking a ground vehicle before plunging into the water near the airport’s seawall. Both the plane and vehicle were submerged partially in the ocean.
Authorities confirmed that two ground workers in the vehicle were killed—one at the scene and another later in the hospital. All four crew members aboard the 747 survived and were rescued with the help of Hong Kong emergency services. Helicopters from the Government Flying Service and vessels from the Fire Services Department were dispatched to recover survivors, secure the wreckage, and contain potential fuel leaks.
Images from the crash site show the aircraft’s fuselage split near the nose and tail sections, with the tail fin and upper fuselage still visible above the water. Emergency crews surrounded the area to manage debris and prevent environmental damage.
Emirates confirmed that the plane was operated by ACT Airlines and carried no cargo at the time. “Crew are confirmed safe and there was no cargo onboard,” the airline told Reuters. Flight data shows the 32-year-old aircraft was originally built as a passenger jet before being converted to a freighter.
Investigators have not determined the cause of the crash, though weather conditions were reportedly stable. Mechanical failure or pilot error are among the potential factors being examined. The Civil Aviation Department of Hong Kong has opened an investigation in collaboration with Turkish and Emirati authorities, along with Boeing technical experts.
The crash is one of the few major incidents at Hong Kong International Airport, which has maintained a strong safety record as one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs. The airport temporarily closed the affected runway to conduct recovery operations and assess structural damage.
This tragedy follows a series of recent runway and ground accidents worldwide, reigniting debate over airfield safety and maintenance standards as global air traffic continues to rise. Aviation authorities praised Hong Kong’s swift emergency response, which prevented a much higher death toll.
Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=ACT+Airlines, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com, bcc.com