A Boeing 747 cargo aircraft operated by ACT Airlines for Emirates SkyCargo crashed off the runway at Hong Kong International Airport on October 20, 2025. The tragic accident killed two airport workers and triggered a large-scale recovery operation.
Loss of Control During Landing
The aircraft, registered as TC-ACF, was flying from Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport. It lost control while landing on runway 07L, veered off the tarmac, broke through a perimeter fence, and hit a security patrol vehicle, killing both occupants instantly.
Crew Survive, Plane Submerged
All four crew members on board survived the crash. Major parts of the aircraft, including the fuselage, engines, and tail section, were later found submerged in the waters north of the airport.
Massive Recovery Effort
Salvage teams worked continuously for nearly a week to recover the wreckage. By October 26, the main fuselage was lifted onto a barge, and both flight recorders were retrieved and sent for detailed analysis.
Emergency Teams in Action
More than 200 personnel from fire, marine, and medical departments took part in the complex recovery effort. Passenger flights continued as usual, while cargo services faced short-term disruptions during the operation.
Investigation Underway
The Hong Kong Air Accident Investigation Authority is leading the probe, assisted by the US National Transportation Safety Board, Turkish officials, and Boeing representatives. Preliminary findings are expected within a month.
Focus on Human or Mechanical Error
Investigators confirmed that weather and runway conditions were normal during landing. The focus is now on possible human or mechanical failure. The crash is among the deadliest incidents at Hong Kong International Airport since it opened in 1998.
