Cargo plane burst tire closes north runway at Hong Kong airport

The north runway at the Hong Kong International Airport has been forced to close for service after a cargo plane burst a tire during its emergency return journey, with the Airport Authority warning of possible flight delays.

The closure followed an emergency landing by the plane at around 7.30 am. The reason for the emergency return remains unknown.

The authority said only the south runway remained in operation for the time being, and flight schedules may be affected.

“The plane is now staying on the north runway. We estimate that the north runway will not be able to operate in the coming few hours,” according to an authority spokesman.

The spokesman called on tourists to check for updates on their flights as it expected flight schedules to be affected.