Cargo plane skids off runway in Hong Kong, 2 killed

A cargo plane skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea while landing at Hong Kong International Airport, killing two airport staff members. British media outlet BBC reported the incident on Monday, October 20.

The ill-fated Emirates flight EK9788 was operated by Turkish cargo airline Air ACT. The aircraft arrived from Dubai at around 3:50 a.m. local time. It crashed after colliding with a ground vehicle while attempting to land on the northern runway.

According to the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, the two ground staff who fell into the sea were rescued and taken to hospital but could not be saved. However, all four crew members on board survived and are currently receiving treatment.

Following the accident, the affected runway was temporarily closed, though other runways at the airport remain operational. Helicopters and fire service boats took part in the rescue operation.