Runway Incident in Hong Kong: A 32-Year-Old Boeing 747-481(BDSF) Meets Its Final Flight
A serious runway excursion took place at Hong Kong International Airport (VHHH) when a Boeing 747-481(BDSF), registered TC-ACF, operating as Emirates SkyCargo Flight EK9788, veered off Runway 07L in the early morning hours after arriving from Dubai Al Maktoum (DWC). The aircraft had completed a 6-hour 53-minute cargo sector before the event.
The Incident
According to airport officials, the aircraft touched down normally but soon deviated left of the runway centerline during rollout. It breached the perimeter and impacted the seawall, coming to rest partially over water with significant structural damage. The rear fuselage section separated aft of the wing box due to the stress of the excursion.
Time of incident: ~03:50 Local Time
Runway: 07L, North Runway
Occupants: 4 crew – all survived
Secondary casualties: A security patrol vehicle positioned beyond the runway fence was struck. Tragically, two airport personnel lost their lives.
Airport operations continued on the other runways, but emergency services declared the 747 a hull loss.
Aircraft History: From Pokémon Livery to Cargo Workhorse
This particular Boeing 747 has a fascinating aviation history:
Detail Information
Type Boeing 747-481(BDSF)
Engines General Electric CF6-80C2B1F
First Flight 19 May 1993
Original Operator All Nippon Airways (ANA) – registered JA8962
Special Livery Flew in the Pokémon Jet theme under ANA (1999–2006), a cultural icon in Japanese aviation
Converted to Cargo 2011, at IAI Bedek, Tel Aviv
Cargo Operators ACT Airlines / MyCargo / Magma Aviation / Saudia Cargo (leased)
Current Operator Air ACT (operating for Emirates SkyCargo)
Age at Accident 32 years
Once a passenger aircraft that carried millions across Asia, this 747 transitioned into a freighter role after retirement from ANA's fleet, extending its service life by more than a decade.
What Could Have Gone Wrong?
Important Note: No official cause has been released yet. Investigators are analyzing the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR).
However, based on the sequence and early imagery, investigators will likely examine:
Possible Focus Areas
Directional control after touchdown – Rudder/tiller response, crosswind factor, or asymmetric thrust.
Brake or spoiler malfunction – Affecting deceleration.
Human factors – Crew workload on a dark, possibly humid surface at night-time cargo ops.
Runway safety vehicle positioning – Why a patrol vehicle was so close to the runway safety area.
A Reminder of the 747 Legacy
The Boeing 747, often called the Queen of the Skies, has been an icon for over five decades. As passenger airlines phase them out, many are converted into freight aircraft to serve night operations at high-demand cargo hubs like Hong Kong, Anchorage, Leipzig, and Dubai.
This accident may mark the final chapter of TC-ACF—an aircraft that started its life carrying families and tourists in colorful Pokémon livery and ended working silently through the night skies, delivering global cargo.
Awaiting Investigation Findings
The Hong Kong Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) will lead the inquiry. Until a preliminary report is released, the aviation community watches closely, especially cargo operators who run aging 747 fleets in intensive flight cycles.
Closing Thought
Aviation has no room for complacency. Whether it’s a new-generation freighter or a 32-year-old converted queen, runway safety remains one of the most critical phases of flight. Every incident like this is not just news—it’s an opportunity for learning, improving, and honoring those who risk their lives on the frontline of global aviation logistics.
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