Two Killed as Emirates Cargo Plane Skids Into Sea at Hong Kong Airport

October 20, 2025

A tragic aviation incident claimed two lives early Monday morning when an Emirates cargo aircraft overran a runway at Hong Kong International Airport and plunged into the sea.

Emirates flight EK9788, operating a cargo service from Dubai, veered off the runway upon landing at approximately 3:50 a.m. local time (19:50 GMT). The aircraft collided with an airport patrol vehicle before coming to rest partially submerged in the waters surrounding the airport.

Casualties

Two ground staff members were killed in the incident. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or provided information about the crew aboard the aircraft.

Images from the scene show the large cargo plane broken apart, with visible damage to the fuselage. The aircraft's distinctive green "cargoAir" livery remained visible on the wreckage partially submerged in shallow waters near the runway.

Hong Kong aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the accident. Factors being examined likely include weather conditions at the time of landing, mechanical issues, and human factors.

The incident has raised questions about runway safety protocols and emergency response procedures at one of Asia's busiest cargo hubs.

Hong Kong International Airport has not yet released a statement regarding the impact on flight operations or when the affected runway will reopen.

Emirates Airlines has been contacted for comment but has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.