A tragic aviation accident struck Hong Kong early Monday when an Emirates cargo plane skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea.
Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the incident occurred at the Hong Kong International Airport around 3:50 a.m. local time, killing two ground staff members instantly.
According to airport authorities, the Boeing 747, identified as Flight EK9788, had just arrived from Dubai when the tragedy unfolded.
While taxiing on the wet runway, the aircraft reportedly veered off course and collided with an airport patrol vehicle before sliding into the nearby sea.
Both occupants of the patrol vehicle members of the ground operations team died on the spot due to the violent impact.
Emergency teams rushed to the scene and successfully rescued the four crew members aboard the aircraft. Fortunately, all survived with minor injuries.
Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department confirmed that a full-scale investigation is underway to determine what caused the crash.
Preliminary findings suggest that poor weather conditions and possible mechanical failure might have contributed to the tragic event.
In an emotional statement, the airport’s Chief Executive Officer, Raymond Chiu, described the crash as “one of the most harrowing aviation incidents in Hong Kong’s recent history.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, calling the tragedy a painful reminder of aviation’s risks.
As rescue and recovery operations continued, the Hong Kong International Airport temporarily suspended activities on Runway 07R/25L to allow for debris clearance and inspection.
The closure led to several flight delays and diversions as airlines scrambled to adjust schedules.
Emirates Airlines has since confirmed the incident and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
In a statement released later in the day, the airline expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and promised support for the affected families.
This crash marks one of Hong Kong’s most serious airport incidents in recent years.
Aviation analysts note that weather-related runway incidents are rare but can be devastating when visibility and traction are poor.
Meanwhile, grief and shock continue to spread among airport workers and aviation enthusiasts.
The victims’ identities have not been officially released, but reports say both were long-serving members of the ground support unit.
Authorities are expected to issue an interim report once investigators complete initial assessments of flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
The tragedy has reignited discussions about runway safety and emergency response speed during severe weather.
Many in Hong Kong are now demanding tighter safety protocols and better equipment for ground operations.