Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan has commended the dedicated efforts of multiple agencies and international partners in responding to the tragic cargo plane crash at Hong Kong International Airport on Monday, as salvage operations and investigations continue to address the incident that claimed two lives.
On October 20, an Emirates cargo plane from Dubai veered off the North Runway after landing, colliding with an airport patrol vehicle and killing two security guards before plunging into the sea.
Chan expressed gratitude for the tireless work of the salvage and investigation teams, who have been operating around the clock with high professionalism.
She highlighted the Airport Authority’s rapid deployment of resources to manage the crisis, the technical expertise provided by the Guangzhou Salvage Bureau to support salvage efforts, and the pivotal role of the Air Accident Investigation Authority in leading the probe.
Additionally, Chan acknowledged the cooperation of Turkish authorities, who have ensured the airline and crew are fully supporting the investigation.
The Air Accident Investigation Authority recently recovered the flight data and cockpit voice recorders, known as black boxes, despite water damage, and has sent them for laboratory analysis to uncover the cause of the crash.
Salvage operations are ongoing, with the North Runway expected to reopen once completed. The Hong Kong government, Airport Authority, and Aviation Security Company Limited are maintaining close communication with the victims’ families, offering support during this challenging period.
