Engine accelerated after landing, probe into deadly Hong Kong plane crash finds

November 18, 2025 at 11:56 AM•2 min read•News18

A Boeing 747 cargo plane crashed after landing in Hong Kong, killing two. What did the preliminary investigation reveal about the engine malfunction?

Key Points

1A Boeing 747 cargo plane crashed in Hong Kong after landing, killing two workers.
2The preliminary investigation found that the Number 4 engine accelerated after touchdown.
3The thrust levers for engines 1, 2, and 3 were closed, while engine 4 was in the full forward thrust position.
4The investigation will focus on the cause of the engine malfunction and potential contributing factors.
5Representatives from multiple international agencies and Boeing are assisting in the investigation.

A preliminary investigation into the fatal Boeing 747 crash in Hong Kong last month revealed a potential engine malfunction after touchdown. The cargo plane, operated under lease by Emirates and flown by Turkiye-based ACT Airlines from Dubai, veered off the runway at Hong Kong's airport on October 20th, colliding with a security patrol car and resulting in the deaths of two workers. The four crew members on board the aircraft were unharmed.

The Transport and Logistics Bureau indicated that initial findings showed normal flight conditions, weather, runway status, and air traffic control leading up to the incident. However, the Air Accident Investigation Authority's report classified the event as an accident, noting that the Number 4 engine accelerated unexpectedly after landing. Examination of the flight deck revealed that the thrust levers for engines 1, 2, and 3 were closed, with reverse thrust engaged, while the Number 4 engine's thrust lever was found in the full forward thrust position, with its reverse thrust lever also fully forward.

The ongoing investigation will focus on determining the cause of the Number 4 engine's thrust lever position and whether any underlying issues contributed to the loss of control. The probe will encompass a thorough analysis of aircraft systems, engine conditions, maintenance records, and human factors. Representatives from Turkiye’s Transport Safety Investigation Centre, the US National Transportation Safety Board, and Boeing's experts are assisting the investigation authority.

The investigative agency aims to complete a comprehensive report within one year. The accident underscores the critical importance of thorough investigations in identifying potential safety hazards and preventing future incidents in commercial aviation. The final report will provide valuable insights into the factors contributing to the crash and recommendations for enhancing safety protocols.