Mrs Chan hailed the courage and professionalism of over 15 bodies involved in the rescue proceedings, before meeting each of them. Several other senior officials also attended proceedings.

Well done: CS Anson Chan chats with police officers involved with the air crash rescue after hailing their professionalism

Twenty officers, led by Commissioner of Police Eddie Hui Ki-on, attended the reception in the Government House Ball Room, including those from Airport District, the Airport Security Unit, the Operations Wing of New Territories South Region, the Police Tactical Unit and others.

Police helped rescue, account for, escort and comfort survivors, retrieve their belongings from the wreck, inform relatives, co-ordinate rescue efforts, clear access for emergency vehicles, secure the airfield, control crowds, calm stranded passengers and clear up the wreckage.

Mrs Chan, who was in London at the time of the crisis on August 22, said she knew through the media, the London Office and through speaking to the Chief Executive how all involved acted promptly and professionally to avert a catastrophe.

"Despite the extreme conditions and clear danger, our colleagues at the scene fearlessly went into the cabin to rescue those trapped. If it had not been for your exemplary courage, the consequence of the accident would have been unthinkable," Mrs Chan said.

"Many of you risked your own lives to save others. It was by all acclaim a first-class response and you rightly deserve praise from the community. I want to say how very proud the Administration is of you all.



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