HONG KONG- Cathay Pacific (CX) Boeing 777 aircraft experienced an aborted takeoff incident at Hong Kong International Airport in the early hours of Saturday (June 24, 2023). The airline has reported that 11 passengers sustained injuries while evacuating the plane.
Flight CX880, scheduled for Los Angeles, has to return to the gate due to a “technical issue” that prompted the crew to abort the takeoff.
A passenger evacuation is initiated as a precautionary measure, and five escape slides are utilized for passengers to exit the aircraft.
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Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Incident
Cathay Pacific has not provided specific details regarding the problem. However, public broadcaster RTHK cited the police stating that one of the plane’s tires overheated, leading to a burst.
Further, the flight carried a total of 293 passengers and 17 crew members during the incident.
Cathay Pacific has confirmed that 11 passengers are currently receiving treatment at the hospital for injuries sustained during the evacuation process. The airline stated that its priority is to provide care and assistance to all affected passengers and crew.
By later in the morning, nine of the injured passengers has been discharged from the hospital, according to the airline’s update.
Using a different aircraft, the flight eventually departed for Los Angeles at 10:12 a.m., carrying a total of 283 passengers.
Passenger Remarks
One passenger, artist Li Shiwei, shared her experience on Instagram. She described how the plane abruptly “dup brake” stopped while preparing for takeoff at high speed, causing shock among the passengers.
Another passenger posted on the “Little Red Book” platform expressing fear of an explosion and the urgency to escape, unintentionally stepping on others while sliding down the escape chute.
Li Shiwei also emphasized the importance of safety and expressed gratitude to the pilot for identifying the issue before takeoff and taking immediate action to prevent any untoward incident.
She highlighted that despite injuries, everyone on board was safe and sound. She stated that the well-being of the staff, pilots, and flight attendants was of utmost importance.
A user on “Little Red Book” named “Ruen Rain” recounted the incident, mentioning the sudden sharp braking of the plane during acceleration for takeoff. The pilot announced a mechanical failure; initial assumptions were that everything was fine.
However, a loud “bang” startled the passenger, causing shock and panic. The flight attendant subsequently made an announcement, and passengers hurriedly prepared to evacuate.
Ruen Rain described the confusion and the sight of the wings. Initially, thinking they would have to jump from the plane until spotting the air cushion.
While sliding down, accidental stepping on others occurred due to the fear of an explosion. Further prompting a desperate rush forward.
The Aftermath
Witnesses observed crying children on the tarmac, with mothers comforting and apologizing to them. Even after reaching the passenger terminal, some individuals experienced lingering palpitations and tears in their eyes.
Videos and Images Circulate Videos circulating on platforms like “Douyin” captured the opening of the escape slide. With a male passenger exclaiming disbelief and concern about the safety ladder.
Pictures shared by readers revealed the deformation of the aircraft’s tail reel. The clips further displayed passengers dropping their luggage before sliding down the escape chute. While others awaited assistance on the tarmac.
While investigations into the incident are ongoing, Cathay Pacific Hong Kong is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers.
Prompt action and cooperation from the crew and authorities helped mitigate the potential risks involved in the aborted takeoff.
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