An afternoon commute turned chaotic on Saturday, November 15, 2025, outside Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) when a Citybus double-decker bus reportedly veered off course and collided with a roadside planter near Terminal 1. The accident, which occurred around 3:16 p.m., resulted in injuries to eighteen individuals, though all were reported to be conscious upon rescue.
The incident prompted an immediate emergency response, with medical personnel attending to the casualties. While eleven individuals suffered minor to moderate injuries, seven passengers were understood to have sustained more serious trauma requiring urgent medical care. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash involving the A12 service bus.
Severe Impact Causes Major Disruption
The force of the impact was immediately evident from images circulating online. The front sections of the double-decker bus, including both the upper and lower windshields, were extensively shattered. Furthermore, a nearby road sign was visibly pushed out of its position, underscoring the severity of the collision with the roadside barrier.
The location of the crash, specifically on Cheong Hong Road near the Terminal 1 departures drop-off lanes, critically impacted traffic flow at one of the world’s busiest airports. Several lanes had to be temporarily closed and cordoned off by emergency services to facilitate rescue operations and initial investigation work.
Commuters and airport users experienced significant delays as police enforced restrictions, narrowing travel to the remaining open lanes. Reports noted considerable and prolonged congestion in the vicinity, advising motorists to seek alternative routes or allow substantial extra time for travel to or from the airport.
Passenger Safety and Immediate Response
While the exact circumstances leading to the Citybus losing control are yet to be determined, such incidents highlight the stringent safety challenges inherent in high-volume public transportation networks, particularly around critical infrastructure like international transport hubs.
For passengers relying on airport bus services, safety remains paramount. Public transport operators are mandated to conduct regular vehicle maintenance and driver training to mitigate risks. Following this accident, the Transport Department is expected to thoroughly review the operating condition of the bus and the driver’s records as part of the formal inquiry.
Actionable Takeaways for Travelers:
- Check Real-Time Traffic: Before heading to HKIA by road, travelers are advised to consult real-time traffic apps or the Transport Department’s website for potential road closures or congestion advisories.
- Utilize Rail Alternatives: During periods of significant road disruption, consider utilizing the Airport Express service, which offers a reliable, fixed-schedule alternative to road transport.
- Allow Buffer Time: Always allocate extra time for travel, especially in the afternoon near peak hours, as unforeseen incidents can severely impact airport access.
The rapid emergency response ensured that all casualties received prompt medical attention, underscoring the coordinated effort between police, fire services, and ambulance teams in handling major incidents outside HKIA. Further updates on the injured passengers and the investigation findings are anticipated in the coming days. Road users can expect residual delays until the bus is fully removed and the roadside barrier damage is assessed for immediate repair.