Remarks: A Kalitta classic making a heavy early morning departure from 07L. I can think of only a few other planes that look better than a classic in this kind of light. N704CK (c/n 22299 as the reg was subsequently reused) overran runway 20 in Brussels & broke into several pieces after a rejected takeoff due to a bird strike but thankfully there were no fatalities. The aircraft was written off. This was originally delivered to China Airlines Cargo in 1980.
Remarks: The last 744 ever built & also the only non-converted -400 in the Kalitta fleet at this time approaching 25R. They are one of only a couple of airlines left flying the 747 classics. It’s such a shame this wasn’t one of their -200s on this very nice day…
Remarks: OM297 was operated by the 767 instead of the usual 738 on this very bright and sunny day. After starting flights to Hong Kong on a seasonal basis a few years ago MIAT Mongolian Airlines now operate on a scheduled basis year-round.
Remarks: Stored and awaiting the scrapman. In the background, sistership B-HOX is being dismantled. When she has gone, HOT will move for the last time to take up that spot for the scrapman's attention.
Remarks: As part of the dismantling process, all items of resale value are collected together, along with items which can be returned to the customer airline for further use such as fire extinguishers, oxygen bottles, first aid kits etc..
Remarks: This is what happens when you park your 747 in an undesirable part of town; vandals come and steal everything!
Just kidding, this 747-400 is in the process of being dismantled for scrap.
Remarks: B-2065 seconds from landing in Hong Kong from Beijing on CA111. Air China passenger movements in Hong Kong are dominated by narrowbodies however some flights are operated with the 772 and A330.
Remarks: D-ABVH is seen here departing for Frankfurt via 07R with the “50 Years Innovation Partnership” titles and logos, which it no longer carries. After many years of operating the FRA-HKG-FRA service with the 744 it’s scheduled to be replaced with the 747-8I from March 31st onwards.
Remarks: Although the vast majority of Cathay's 777 fleet has never operated into Kai Tak, a few of the oldest aircraft (the original four 777-200s and a few of the 777-300s) were a common sight in the last couple of years of Kai Tak's life. It would have been great to see the 777s in the "Lettuce Sandwich" scheme seen in the background on a company 747-400.
Remarks: A great looking 747 on finals for runway 25R. Hopefully the 747-8 continues to sell because they are gorgeous looking planes; so much better than the 748i competition from that European company!
Remarks: China Cargo flight 264 operated by this Great Wall BCF making a graceful climb from 25L bound for Shanghai. Great Wall Airlines is now a defunct cargo airline after its merger with China Cargo Airlines.
Remarks: One of two 767 freighters in the fleet seen here departing for Baku delayed after an over-night stay. There are very few airports worldwide that can match the variety of international cargo traffic we get, and Silk Way Airlines is one of many cargo operators in Hong Kong. I don’t see how anyone can not like this scheme as it looks superb.
Remarks: With the last 737 withdrawn from fleet & transferred to parent airline Hainan Airlines in January Hong Kong Airlines has since then become all-Airbus operator.
