747 Runway Excursion at Hong Kong Killed Two Ground Workers

The landing appeared normal until the aircraft veered left

On 20 October 2025, Boeing 747-481(BDSF) TC-ACF, operated by ACT Airlines for Emirates SkyCargo as flight EK9788, arrived at Hong Kong International Airport from Al Maktoum on a repositioning flight. The aircraft was empty apart from its four crew members. the final approach and initial landing appeared normal.

The aircraft left the runway

During the landing roll, approximately halfway down Runway 07L, the aircraft suddenly veered to the left. It travelled down the runway embankment and continued toward the water beside the runway. The aircraft broke apart after entering the sea and came to rest near the runway edge.

The impact involved a ground vehicle

Four crew members evacuated the aircraft and were rescued. The runway excursion also struck a ground maintenance vehicle. Two workers inside that vehicle were killed. This makes the event materially different from an aircraft-only runway excursion: the most serious fatalities were on the ground.

The Early Reporting Did Not Establish a Cause

The preliminary record identifies the aircraft, its four crew members, the two ground fatalities and the runway-excursion sequence. It does not establish a cause.

Contemporary reporting on the occurrence.

The Preliminary Investigation Has Not Established a Cause

The early report states: ‘the cause is totally unknown at present.’

Accident Facts

Sources

• Hong Kong AAIA preliminary report notice: https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202511/18/P2025111700567.htm