Hong Kong, Monday, October 20, 2025 — Two ground crew members were killed early Monday after a cargo plane from the United Arab Emirates crashed into a ground vehicle and slid off a runway into the sea at Hong Kong International Airport, authorities said.
In a statement, the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (CAD) reported that the Boeing 747-400 (B744) cargo aircraft “deviated from the North Runway after landing and ditched into the sea.” The incident occurred before dawn, prompting an immediate emergency response.
“Preliminary information indicates that the four crew members on board were rescued and sent to hospital, while two ground staff were affected and fell into the sea,” the CAD said.
According to officials, the aircraft apparently collided with a service vehicle on the runway during landing. Both the plane and the vehicle ended up in the water. Emergency teams managed to recover all six individuals involved.
Tragically, one man aged 30 was pronounced dead at the scene, while another man, 41, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to hospital.
Authorities have not released the identities of the victims, pending notification of next of kin. The four crew members, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, remain hospitalized for observation.
The Airport Authority Hong Kong said the North Runway was closed temporarily as investigators examined the scene and assessed damage to infrastructure. The airport’s other two runways continue to operate, allowing limited flight operations to proceed.
An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, including whether adverse weather, human error, or mechanical failure played a role.
Videos circulating on social media showed emergency crews surrounding the partially submerged aircraft as rescue boats ferried survivors to shore.
This incident marks one of the most serious airfield accidents in Hong Kong in recent years and comes amid increasing air cargo traffic through the busy Asian hub.
