Two Hong Kong airport security staff were killed when a cargo plane skidded off a runway, hit their patrol vehicle, and ploughed into the sea.
Emirates flight EK9788 was arriving from Dubai at about 03:50 local time on Monday when it veered off the runway, crashed through perimeter fencing, and collided with the vehicle, pushing it into the water.
The two occupants of the patrol vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene, while all four crew members on the Boeing 747 survived.
The crash, one of the deadliest in years at a previously safe Hong Kong International Airport, has prompted an investigation into the causes of the incident. Airport officials are reviewing the maneuvers made by the aircraft upon landing, asserting compliance with protocol throughout the incident.
According to reports, the patrol car was stationed at a safe distance from the runway when the aircraft deviated from its course, indicating a serious breach of standard procedures during landing.
Notably, the aircraft did not transmit any distress signals and an investigation will take into account weather conditions, runway status, and crew performance during the event.
Divers managed to retrieve the bodies of the deceased security personnel, aged 30 and 41, both highly experienced with years of service. The transport bureau expressed deep condolences to their families and emphasized the tragedy of the incident.
Meanwhile, operations on the remaining runways at the airport resumed, although 11 cargo flights were canceled as consequences of the incident. This tragic event marks a significant safety concern at Hong Kong International Airport, which has maintained a solid safety record since its relocation in 1998.
