Posted: 3 March 2026 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet

Hong Kong International Airport tested emergency readiness during a large scale overnight crash exercise involving 1,000 participants under three runway operations.

Credit: Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) conducted its annual aircraft crash and rescue exercise at the Centre Runway, mobilising more than 1,000 representatives from around 20 organisations and government departments. Greater Bay Airlines participated as the designated carrier, with over 400 volunteers role playing passengers and family members.

The scenario began at 0215hrs with a simulated departure carrying 120 passengers aborting take off following reports of smoke from a power bank beneath a seat. During braking, a tyre burst and the aircraft veered off the runway. Its landing gear collapsed and a fire subsequently broke out. Air Traffic Control activated the crash alarm immediately.

Airport Authority Hong Kong activated the Airport Emergency Centre to coordinate communication across airport stakeholders and government agencies. Emergency responders including the Fire Services Department and the Hong Kong Police Force deployed to manage firefighting, rescue operations and casualty handling.

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Fatalities and injuries were simulated, with injured passengers conveyed to five public hospitals. Uninjured passengers were transferred to a Passenger Reception Centre before moving to a Family Reception Centre after immigration and customs procedures. Humanitarian and psychological support services were also incorporated into the exercise framework.

A joint press conference simulation was staged by AAHK, the Air Accident Investigation Authority, Greater Bay Airlines, FSD and HKPF, with approximately 30 university students role playing media representatives. The exercise concluded at 0600hrs.

Steven Yiu, Executive Director, Airport Operations of AAHK, said: “Safety always comes first at HKIA. As the airport traffic and passenger volumes continue to grow, the exercise provided an essential opportunity for the airport community to assess and enhance its preparedness for contingencies and crisis management.”

The drill was conducted in line with aerodrome licensing requirements and forms part of HKIA’s regular emergency preparedness programme.

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Air traffic control/management (ATC/ATM), Airport crisis management, Airside operations, Operational efficiency, Passenger experience and seamless travel, Regulation and Legislation, Risk Management Solutions, Safety, Security, Workforce

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA)

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK)

Asia Pacific and Oceania

Steven Yiu