Tragic Plane Crash: Emirates Cargo Aircraft Skids Off Runway, Claims Two Lives

A catastrophic incident at Hong Kong International Airport has left at least two people dead after an Emirates Boeing 747 cargo plane veered off the runway, collided with a car, and ultimately landed in the ocean.

Crash Details

The aircraft, operating as Aerotranscargo flight EK9788 from Dubai, met its fate early Monday morning at around 4 a.m. local time, as reported by ABC News, Reuters, and the BBC. Details from airport officials indicate the plane struck a car during its runway skid, sending both the vehicle and the aircraft into the water.

Two workers, who were in the runway vehicle, tragically lost their lives. One was declared dead on the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries at a nearby hospital.

Crew are confirmed to be safe and there was no cargo onboard.

Emirates statement to Reuters

Survivors and Rescue Efforts

Fortunately, the four crew members aboard the aircraft survived, receiving prompt medical attention post-crash. Images from the site reveal a partially submerged plane, its escape slide deployed, with the nose and tail sections visibly detached.

The Emirates aircraft, leased from and operated by ACT Airlines, a Turkish cargo carrier, was devoid of cargo during the incident. Further examination shows the aircraft was an age-old feature of aviation, having served as a passenger plane 32 years ago.

Investigation and Response

The response from local authorities was swift. Assistance by Hong Kong’s Government Flying Service helicopters and Fire Services Department vessels marked a coordinated rescue effort. The exact cause of the plane’s deviation from the runway remains under investigation.

This tragic crash has cast a shadow over Hong Kong International Airport, known for its exemplary safety record, highlighting the rare nature of such mishaps here. Emirates and ACT Airlines have yet to provide additional comments.

Reporting based on the original article; quotes reproduced verbatim.