In a tragic incident at Hong Kong International Airport, at least two individuals lost their lives when a cargo plane veered off the runway, struck a car, and plunged into the nearby ocean. The Emirates Boeing 747, identified as EK9788 and operated by Aerotranscargo, was en route from Dubai when the accident occurred on Monday morning. The collision with a vehicle on the runway led to both the car and the aircraft submerging in the water simultaneously, resulting in the loss of two workers in the car.
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Reports indicate that the two individuals in the vehicle tragically perished, with one pronounced dead at the scene and the other succumbing to injuries after being transported to a local hospital. Meanwhile, four employees aboard the plane managed to survive the crash and were promptly taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment. The aftermath of the incident was captured in photos showing the partially submerged plane near the airport’s sea wall, with the inflatable escape slide deployed and sections of the aircraft separated.
Emirates Airlines confirmed that the aircraft involved was under the operation of ACT Airlines, a Turkish carrier that provides additional cargo capacity to major airlines. The airline stated that the crew members were confirmed safe, and there was no cargo onboard at the time of the crash. Despite being 32 years old and previously used as a passenger plane, no immediate response was provided by Emirates or ACT Airlines to PEOPLE’s request for comment on the matter.
Local authorities swiftly initiated rescue operations, with Hong Kong’s Government Flying Service deploying helicopters and Fire Services Department vessels aiding in the efforts. Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to determine the factors that led to the plane veering off the runway, as such occurrences are rare at the typically safe Hong Kong airport. As the aviation community mourns the lives lost in this tragic event, the incident serves as a solemn reminder of the inherent risks associated with air travel.
The global aviation industry will undoubtedly analyse this incident to enhance safety protocols and prevent similar tragedies in the future. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected by this devastating crash. Such accidents underscore the importance of stringent safety measures and thorough investigations to uphold the highest standards of aviation security and passenger well-being. As details continue to emerge, the aviation community remains vigilant in ensuring the safety and security of all air travellers worldwide.