ACT Airlines Boeing 747 Operating for Emirates Veers Off Runway in Hong Kong

A Boeing 747-481 freighter (registration TC-ACF), operated by Turkish cargo carrier ACT Airlines on behalf of Emirates SkyCargo, veered off the runway during landing at Hong Kong International Airport early Sunday morning, resulting in a fatal collision with a ground service vehicle.

The aircraft, flying as Emirates Flight EK9788 from Dubai, touched down on runway 07L around 03:53 local time before veering off course and striking the vehicle near the runway edge. The impact dragged the vehicle toward the seawall, killing two ground personnel instantly. The aircraft’s nose section came to rest partially overhanging the water, with visible structural damage.

All four crew members onboard escaped without serious injury. Emergency services, including fire and marine units, responded swiftly to secure the site and begin recovery operations. Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department has launched a formal investigation into the incident, with support from Emirates, ACT Airlines, and Boeing.

According to ADS-B data information provided FlightRadar24, the 747 had a ground speed of 49kts when the aircraft hit the water. Weather conditions at the time were reportedly challenging.

The aircraft involved is a 32-year-old Boeing 747-481 BDSF, originally delivered in 1993 and converted for cargo operations. ACT Airlines, also known as myCargo, operates freighter services globally and has been contracted by Emirates for supplemental lift capacity.