A Hong Kong Airlines flight bound for Okinawa returned to Hong Kong International Airport shortly after departure on Wednesday due to a suspected landing gear malfunction. Flight HX676 took off at 8:57 a.m. but encountered an issue with the landing gear not fully retracting, prompting the crew to turn back as a precautionary measure.

The aircraft landed safely at 10 a.m. without any injuries reported among the 160 passengers and crew onboard. In response to the incident, the airline quickly organized an alternative flight, which departed at 12:07 p.m., resulting in a delay of approximately two and a half hours for those affected.

The carrier confirmed that the plane is undergoing a thorough inspection to determine the cause of the suspected incomplete landing gear retraction. Hong Kong Airlines has notified the relevant aviation authorities and stated it will cooperate fully with any ensuing investigation.

In a statement, the airline emphasized that passenger safety remains its highest priority and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused. The Airport Authority confirmed that airport personnel were placed on standby following the flight’s request to return.