24-6-2023 (HONG KONG) A serious incident unfolded at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) in the early hours of today when a Cathay Pacific flight, CX880, bound for Los Angeles, had to return to the airport shortly after takeoff due to a technical fault with its tyres. As a result, 11 passengers sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
The incident occurred at approximately 12:58 am local time when the flight crew detected a technical problem with the aircraft’s tyres shortly after takeoff. Adhering to standard procedures, the crew promptly made the decision to return the plane to the airport. Upon arrival at the gate, precautionary measures were taken to evacuate the passengers and crew. It was observed that one set of wheels on the aircraft involved in the incident had multiple deformed tires, indicating signs of deflation and indentation. To ensure the safety of all individuals on board, the crew deployed five escape slides, facilitating the evacuation of 293 passengers and 17 crew members. Unfortunately, during the evacuation process, 11 passengers sustained minor injuries and were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention. Thankfully, all passengers and crew members were successfully evacuated from the plane.
18 people have been injured due to emergency evacuations following a Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-300ER aircraft (B-KPQ) aborted take-off on Runway 07R of Hong Kong International Airport (HKG/VHHH), that resulted in tire bust on 24 June.#incident #aviation pic.twitter.com/quexhyvHW0
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) June 24, 2023
Among the injured passengers was a Chinese-American woman who was escorted to North Lantau Hospital by immigration officials. The remaining seven passengers who sustained minor injuries were treated at the scene and did not require hospitalization.
An eyewitness reported that the incident occurred at around 12:10 am as the aircraft was preparing for takeoff. The captain, upon noticing an anomaly on the instrument panel, made the decision to return to the gate. Upon returning at approximately 12:45 am, a loud noise was heard, and four escape slides were deployed. While descending the slide, one woman fell, but airport staff swiftly intervened to maintain order and prevent any further disruptions.
According to other witnesses, the aircraft was on the runway, preparing for takeoff when it suddenly came to a halt. The plane’s tyres “burst” instantaneously, causing at least four emergency escape slides on both sides of the tail to be deployed. As passengers descended the emergency slides, many struggled to maintain their balance upon landing. Some individuals fell to the ground, while others slid down headfirst. Consequently, those who were unable to stand up promptly resulted in a cascading effect, almost resembling a “human domino” scenario.
Cathay Pacific issued an official statement apologizing for any inconvenience caused to passengers and confirmed that alternative flight arrangements had been made for those affected. The airline is actively cooperating with authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
The Hong Kong Airport Authority (HKAA) also released a statement, affirming that the airport is working in collaboration with the airline and relevant parties to determine the cause of the incident. Despite the occurrence, the airport is operating as usual, and passengers are advised to consult their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and information.
