Hong Kong Airlines flight HX676 returned to Hong Kong International Airport on October 4 after the aircraft was suspected of being unable to fully retract its landing gear shortly after taking off for Naha, Okinawa. It had departed at about 9.15am.
The aircraft landed safely at about 10am, and no injuries were reported. Police and firefighters were placed on standby at the airport after the incident was reported.
Hong Kong Airlines said the crew followed standard safety procedures and decided to return to Hong Kong International Airport to protect flight safety. The disruption affected 160 passengers, for whom the airline arranged alternative flights; their journeys were expected to be delayed by about two and a half hours.
The aircraft was undergoing a full inspection after landing. Hong Kong Airlines said it had reported the incident to the relevant regulatory departments and would co-operate with the follow-up investigation.