Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Preliminary Report on Hong Kong 747 Crash Finds Engine 4 Surged After Landing

Investigators are focusing on whether an uncommanded engine‑4 power surge, with its reverser inoperative, explains the runway excursion.

Overview

  • Hong Kong’s AAIA says the Boeing 747’s No. 4 engine accelerated post‑touchdown, surging to about 106–107% thrust within 12 seconds.
  • The freighter was legally dispatched with the No. 4 engine thrust reverser inoperative under the Minimum Equipment List.
  • After touchdown the autobrake system disengaged, the captain took control, and thrust reversers were selected on the other three engines.
  • The jet veered left, struck a security patrol vehicle, and both went into the sea, killing two airport workers as the four crew survived and the aircraft was destroyed.
  • Authorities are analyzing flight data, systems, maintenance records and human factors with support from Turkey’s investigators, the U.S. NTSB and Boeing, targeting a final report within about a year.