Secretary for Security TK Lai says the bodies of the Hong Kong tourists who died in Tuesday's hot-air balloon accident in Egypt should be brought back to Hong Kong properly, and as soon as possible.

Speaking to the media today, Mr Lai said chartering a flight is an option, but there are also other means to bring them back.

He said it is important to consider the families’ wishes, and to return the bodies as soon as possible.

The Government will help arrange for on-site ceremonies to be held by the families.

Egyptian authorities will help in the body identification process, and experts have arrived in the country to assist.

The Government has also sent a DNA specialist, in case the bodies cannot be identified by sight.