Hong Kong releases preliminary report on Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 747 crash

Hong Kong's Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) has released its preliminary report on the October 20 Emirates SkyCargo freighter crash, detailing the critical moments leading to the Boeing 747-481 BDSF veering off the runway. The report confirms the aircraft, operated by ACT Airlines on behalf of Emirates SkyCargo, departed Runway 07L shortly after touchdown following an 'AUTOBRAKES' alert in the cockpit. This incident tragically resulted in the deaths of two airport security staff and the complete destruction of the freighter.

The preliminary findings indicate that the co-pilot was the Pilot Flying during the landing at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) at 03:52 am. An 'AUTOBRAKES' message appeared on the EICAS system as the aircraft decelerated, prompting the captain to assume control. Moments later, the Boeing 747 veered sharply left, exiting the runway near Taxiway C6. The aircraft then collided with a stationary airport security ground vehicle, pushing it into the sea, and subsequently destroyed meteorological sensor arrays and part of the airport's perimeter fence. All four flight crew members survived the crash.

The AAIA's report notes that weather conditions were suitable for landing, with visibility exceeding 10 km, and all airport navigation, communication, and air traffic control systems were functioning normally. Air Traffic Control had instructed the crew to "keep their speed up" post-touchdown due to traffic flow. The aircraft had also departed with allowable Minimum Equipment List (MEL) items, including a hydraulic system cockpit indication issue corrected earlier and an inoperative number 4 engine thrust reverser. The investigation team is conducting a detailed analysis to determine the precise circumstances and causes of the accident, with the aim of preventing recurrence. Emirates has confirmed its full cooperation with the ongoing probe.