Hong Kong launches probe after mid-air collision alert triggered by cargo planes
Authorities remove air traffic control staff involved from frontline duty, saying take-off protocols may not have been followed
The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) said on Friday the staff might have failed to follow take-off protocols.
“The CAD is highly concerned about the incident and has immediately initiated an investigation and follow-up actions according to procedures,” a spokesman said.
“Preliminary information indicates that the incident may involve non-compliance by ATC [air traffic control] personnel with established procedures for arranging aircraft for take-off. The relevant ATC personnel have been temporarily removed from frontline ATC duties.”
Secretary for Transport and Logistics Mable Chan said on Friday her bureau paid great attention to aviation safety.
She said she ordered the department to submit a report on the incident and conduct an investigation as soon as possible, adding the scope of the probe would include air traffic control procedures, mechanisms, staff training and employee management.
“Through this incident, depending on the results and opinions of the investigation, we hope to make some appropriate preventative measures and precautions,” she said.