Cargo Plane Crash at Hong Kong Airport Kills 2 Security Officers

URGENT UPDATE: A tragic incident unfolded at Hong Kong International Airport early this morning as a Boeing 747 cargo plane skidded off the runway and crashed into the sea, resulting in the deaths of two airport security officers. The accident occurred at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time on October 20, 2023, prompting immediate emergency response efforts.

The cargo plane, arriving from Al Maktoum International Airport, deviated from the north runway during landing and collided with a security patrol car, pushing it into the water. According to officials from the Hong Kong Airport Authority, one officer was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second succumbed to injuries at a local hospital.

During a press conference, Steven Yiu Siu-Chung, executive director for Hong Kong’s airport operations, confirmed that the patrol vehicle was stationed a safe distance away from the runway at the time of the incident. “The car was outside the fences on a patrol route and definitely did not run out onto the runway,” Yiu stated, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the collision.

In the wake of the crash, emergency services swiftly mobilized, deploying 213 firefighters and multiple rescue vehicles to the scene. Four crew members aboard the cargo plane were successfully rescued and transported to a hospital for treatment. Fortunately, all crew members are reported to be safe, as confirmed by Emirates, the airline operating the flight.

Photos from the scene depict the plane’s wreckage, with parts scattered and the tail section notably detached from the fuselage. The north runway remains closed while investigations are underway, but officials assure that the south and center runways continue to operate normally, with over 1,000 scheduled flights unaffected.

The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, which has raised concerns about airport safety protocols. As details continue to emerge, the impact of this incident resonates deeply within the community, highlighting the risks faced by airport personnel daily.

As the situation develops, authorities are urging the public to stay informed through official channels. The loss of two dedicated security officers, who had served at the airport for seven and twelve years, is a heartbreaking reminder of the vital role played by airport staff in maintaining safety.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as investigations proceed.