HONG KONG — A cargo aircraft arriving from Dubai skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea while landing at Hong Kong International Airport early Monday, killing two ground service staff in a vehicle near the runway, local authorities said.
The Hong Kong Airport Authority said the incident occurred around 3:50 a.m. on Oct. 20.
The aircraft, a Boeing 747-400F operated by Turkey’s Air ACT Cargo for Emirates Airlines, overshot the north runway and came to rest partially submerged off Lantau Island.
All four crew members were rescued without major injuries.
A ground service vehicle was struck during the landing, killing two men on board. Another worker who was initially reported missing was later found alive, according to the authorities.
The north runway has been closed for investigation and recovery, while the south and central runways remain in operation, the airport said.
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Flight operations have largely resumed, with only minor delays reported.
According to Flightradar24, the aircraft was flight EK9721 from Dubai (DXB) to Hong Kong (HKG). The freighter was leased by Emirates from Air ACT, a Turkish cargo operator.
Weather data indicated light rain and shifting winds at the time of landing. The Civil Aviation Department said a full investigation is underway to determine the cause, including weather, equipment, and human factors.
As of late Monday, Emirates Airlines had not issued a public statement, and Air ACT declined to respond to requests for comment.
Reuters contributed to this post
