On 20 October 2025, an Emirates cargo plane went past its stopping point on the runway at Hong Kong International Airport. The Hong Kong airport plane accident in October 2025 involved flight EK9788, based on the Turkish company ACT Airlines, which went down into the ocean. Unfortunately, there were two airport workers killed. The accident happened at about 4 am local time.
The Boeing 747-400 had the flight from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. There was no cargo in the plane. The four-man crew escaped without any injuries. This tragic Emirates cargo plane crash in Hong Kong in 2025 has raised concerns about runway safety.
An Emirates cargo plane overshot the Hong Kong runway, killing two workers.
What Happened During the Cargo Plane Incident?
The flight EK9788 did not manage to halt at the end of the runway towards the north. Before going into the water, it hit a vehicle that was being used for ground services. According to the local newspapers, both of the ground staff were in the vehicle. One of the men, who was 30 years old, was rescued from the water but died at the site of the accident. Another one, aged 41, passed away after being admitted to North Lantau Hospital.
Emirates, the company that was leasing the aircraft from ACT Airlines, confirmed that the plane was indeed damaged during the landing. The crew was safe, and no dangerous cargo materials were on board. The cargo plane skids off the runway in Hong Kong, making it one of the latest runway incidents of 2025.
How Did Emergency Services Respond?
It didn’t take long for emergency teams to arrive at the place of the accident and begin the rescue operations. The authorities decided to temporarily close one of the three runways at the airport. Divers and rescuers were present in the affected area. The quick response not only saved more lives but also ensured that the injured crew would receive medical attention without delay.
The airport management was doing everything possible to bring back normal operations. The other two runways were still in use, and therefore, flights were allowed to continue, albeit with minor delays. This swift response was critical during the Hong Kong airport plane accident in October 2025.
Airport quickly restored operations; two runways are open despite minor delays.
Were the Crew Members Safe?
Certainly! All four crewmembers who were there are alive and well. The Boeing 747-400 was not loaded with anything, which perhaps lessened the chance of more dangers arising during the crash. Following the crew’s safety procedures, there was a calming down of the situation by evacuation and resuscitation support directly after that.
Emirates pointed out that the plane was on wet lease and was under the control of ACT Airlines. The airline made it known that the damage assessment was in progress. The Emirates cargo plane crash in Hong Kong in 2025 has emphasised improved safety review for ground operations.
What Are the Causes Behind the Runway Overshoot?
Several factors are being looked into by investigators in the Hong Kong airport plane accident in October 2025. The findings suggest that there were no severe weather problems at that time. The runway was pronounced safe and fit for aircraft.
The reason for the incident is said to have been the turning off of the expected landing pattern, causing a crash with the ground service vehicle. The authorities are going to check the flight data recorders in order to find out if there were any technical or operational failures. The cargo plane skids off the runway Hong Kong incident has become a focus of aviation safety discussions.
Investigators found no severe weather; runway deemed safe for landing.
What Is the Status of Hong Kong International Airport?
The north runway was closed to air traffic by the authorities due to the accident. Traffic on the other two runways continued without any restrictions. Flight schedules were affected slightly with delays but continued operations without interruptions of a major scale.
The airport is conducting a review of its safety measures in an attempt to eliminate any future incidents of a similar nature. Not-so-distant ground operations near runways are under stricter supervision. Airport authorities are also reviewing training and equipment to avoid similar tragedies. The Emirates cargo plane crash in Hong Kong in 2025 has prompted renewed focus on safety protocols.
Also Read: DHL Cargo Plane Crashes in Lithuania, Killing One Crew Member
FAQs
- What caused the Emirates cargo plane crash in Hong Kong? The plane missed the runway and collided with a ground service vehicle before crashing into the water.
- Were there any crew casualties?
No, the incident left all four crew members safe and sound.
,3. How did emergency services respond?
Emergencon teams were fast to arrive, performed rescues, and took the runway out of service.
- Is Hong Kong International Airport operational now?
Yes, with two runways still open, the airport carried on with its flight schedules though with slight delays.
- Was the plane carrying cargo?
No, the Boeing 747-400 was not loaded with any cargo when it crashed.
- Who operated the aircraft?
The plane was wet-leased by Emirates SkyCargo and operated by ACT Airlines to handle cargo.
