Emirates cargo plane skids off runway into sea at Hong Kong International Airport

According to local media reports, a cargo plane skidded off the runway at Hong Kong International Airport and crashed into the sea, killing two people.

Emirates flight EK9788, operating as Aerotranscargo, arrived from Dubai at around 03:50 local time (19:50 GMT) when it hit a car on the north runway.

In the statement made by the Civil Aviation Department, it was stated that two airport ground personnel fell into the sea. They were rescued but died later in hospital, local media including public broadcaster RTHK reported, citing police.

All 4 crew members on the plane survived and were taken to hospital.

The affected runway is closed, but the airport’s other two runways are still in operation.

The Airport Authority will hold a press conference at 10:00 local time (02:00 GMT).

According to media reports, the Hong Kong Government Flight Service deployed helicopters over the affected runway, while Fire Services Department ships also participated in the rescue effort.

This is a rare occurrence for Hong Kong International Airport, which has a good safety record.