Home » Airlines News of China » Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 777F Skids Off Icy Taxiway at Budapest Airport, Disrupting Operations in Hungary with Global Cargo Impact Across Ethiopia, China, and Norway
Published on
January 19, 2026
Severe winter weather once again underscored the operational challenges faced by global aviation, as Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s leading carriers based in Ethiopia, experienced a ground incident involving a Boeing 777F at Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport in Hungary. During the early hours of January 13, 2026, the cargo aircraft operating flight ET 3707 encountered treacherous surface conditions while taxiing, leading to a low-speed excursion from the paved taxiway onto a grassy verge. The event unfolded amid widespread freezing rain, black ice, and sub-zero temperatures affecting Central Europe, with ripple effects across regional and international flight schedules.
The aircraft had arrived from Hong Kong, China, highlighting the truly global nature of modern cargo operations and the interconnected risks posed by extreme weather. While no injuries were reported and no immediate structural damage was confirmed, the incident prompted swift action from airport authorities and renewed attention toward winter preparedness measures. The episode also illustrated how even routine post-landing procedures can become complex under adverse conditions, particularly for widebody freighters operating at maximum efficiency. Through coordinated response efforts, airport operations were eventually stabilized, allowing the aircraft to continue its journey later that day to Oslo, Norway, reinforcing the resilience of international cargo networks.
Winter Weather Disrupts Operations at Budapest Airport, Hungary
On January 13, 2026, Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport was affected by a powerful winter weather system characterized by heavy freezing rain and widespread black ice. These conditions significantly reduced surface friction across runways, taxiways, and apron areas, forcing airport authorities in Hungary to activate heightened winter operations protocols. Continuous monitoring and surface treatment were implemented, yet localized icy patches remained difficult to detect and mitigate fully.
As a major gateway connecting Central Europe with international destinations, Budapest Airport experienced delays and operational constraints throughout the day. Several flights across the region were impacted, as aircraft movements were carefully managed to maintain safety. The challenging weather conditions underscored the vulnerability of ground operations, even at well-equipped international airports accustomed to seasonal winter hazards.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 3707 Arrival from Hong Kong, China
Ethiopian Airlines flight ET 3707, operated by a Boeing 777F freighter, arrived in Budapest from Hong Kong during the early morning hours. Flight tracking data indicated that the aircraft maintained a standard cruise profile and descent, with no irregularities reported during the en-route phase. The approach and landing were completed without incident, and the aircraft touched down slightly ahead of schedule despite the deteriorating weather environment.
Following landing, the aircraft began taxiing toward its assigned cargo stand. It was during this routine ground movement that the effects of black ice became apparent. Reduced tire friction on the icy surface caused the aircraft to lose directional control at low speed, resulting in the nose gear gradually sliding off the paved taxiway.
Taxiway Excursion on Black Ice at Taxiway A6
The Boeing 777F involved in the incident skidded off Taxiway A6 and came to rest partially on a grassy verge adjacent to the paved surface. The excursion occurred at taxi speed, minimizing kinetic energy and reducing the risk of structural damage. The aircraft remained upright at all times, and the situation was promptly stabilized.
No injuries were reported among the flight crew or ground personnel, and there was no immediate indication of fuel leakage or hazardous material exposure. The aircraft was secured in position while airport emergency and maintenance teams assessed the situation. The incident was categorized as a taxiway excursion rather than a runway overrun, distinguishing it from higher-risk ground events.
Immediate Response by Budapest Airport Authorities
Budapest Airport authorities and contracted ground handling teams initiated recovery operations immediately after the incident. Snow and ice removal equipment was deployed extensively across the airfield, focusing on affected taxiways and critical movement areas. De-icing agents and mechanical clearing vehicles were used continuously to restore acceptable friction levels.
Coordination between air traffic control, airport operations, and airline representatives ensured that safety zones were established and that aircraft movements were adjusted accordingly. Temporary restrictions were imposed in certain areas of the airfield, contributing to delays but maintaining overall operational safety. As weather conditions gradually improved, normal service levels were progressively restored.
Aircraft Recovery and Continued Cargo Operations
Once the surface conditions stabilized, the Boeing 777F was carefully recovered from the grassy area. The aircraft was subsequently unloaded for inspection and operational checks. No significant structural damage was publicly confirmed, allowing the freighter to return to service within the same day.
Later on January 13, 2026, the aircraft operated a scheduled cargo flight to Oslo, Norway, demonstrating the efficiency of recovery procedures and the robustness of Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo operations. The rapid return to service minimized disruption to global supply chains and reinforced confidence in the airline’s operational resilience.
Aircraft and Fleet Background of Ethiopian Airlines
The aircraft involved, registered ET-BAA, is a Boeing 777F delivered to Ethiopian Airlines in late 2023. As a relatively new addition to the fleet, it represents the airline’s ongoing investment in modern, fuel-efficient freighter aircraft. Ethiopian Airlines operates one of Africa’s largest and most diversified cargo networks, connecting markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
The Boeing 777F is widely recognized for its payload capacity, range, and reliability, making it a cornerstone of long-haul cargo operations. Incidents involving such aircraft are closely analyzed, not only for immediate safety lessons but also for broader operational insights relevant to winter operations worldwide.
Investigation and Safety Review
Following the incident, investigation teams from Budapest Airport and relevant aviation safety authorities initiated a detailed review. Environmental data, ground handling procedures, and operational decision-making processes are being examined to determine how localized black ice contributed to the taxiway excursion.
The investigation aims to identify preventive measures that could further enhance safety during extreme winter conditions. While no injuries or major damage were reported, the event serves as a reminder of the importance of continuous improvement in winter operations planning, particularly at airports serving global cargo traffic.
Bottom Line
The taxiway excursion involving an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 777F at Budapest Airport in Hungary was the result of severe winter weather and localized black ice. Despite the disruption caused to airport operations and regional flight schedules, effective safety protocols ensured that no injuries occurred and that the aircraft was returned to service promptly.
As global cargo networks continue to expand across countries such as Ethiopia, China, Hungary, and Norway, incidents like this highlight the critical role of coordinated airport response and rigorous winter preparedness. Ongoing investigations are expected to contribute valuable insights, helping aviation stakeholders refine procedures and maintain safety standards during extreme weather conditions.
