Investigators are examining the catastrophic crash of Jeju Air's Boeing 737-800, which claimed the lives of 179 passengers while two crew members survived. The aircraft, returning from Bangkok, attempted to land at Muan International Airport but reportedly encountered a bird strike warning from air traffic control shortly before its crash landing. This incident, marking the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korean history, has sparked widespread grief and a national mourning period.
Did bird strike contribute to South Korea's deadliest plane crash? Key updates
Did bird strike contribute to South Korea's deadliest plane crash? Key updates
A tragic plane crash in South Korea leaves over 170 people dead, prompting investigations into potential causes, including a bird strike and weather conditions.
On Sunday morning, a catastrophic plane crash during landing at Muan International Airport resulted in the deaths of more than 170 individuals aboard the Jeju Air flight from Bangkok. The Boeing 737-800 experienced difficulties upon landing, allegedly colliding with a wall after losing control and catching fire. Of the 181 people on board, 179 are confirmed dead, with only two crew members rescued from the wreckage.
Initial investigations are underway as fire officials speculate that a bird strike may have contributed to the crash, alongside adverse weather conditions. A South Korean transport official mentioned that the plane received a bird strike warning shortly before the landing attempt, leading to a Mayday call from the pilot just moments later. Eyewitness reports detailed a loud bang followed by explosions, with video evidence showing the aircraft engulfed in flames.
Lee Jeong-hyun, the head of the Muan fire department, confirmed that while rescue crews managed to identify the tail section of the plane, the rest of the fuselage was unrecognizable. The head of Jeju Air stated that there were no maintenance issues prior to the flight, assuaging concerns about mechanical failure. Additionally, the pilot, boasting over 6,800 hours of experience, had held his position since 2019.
As the recovery efforts continue, more than 1,500 emergency personnel have been deployed to search for remains and aircraft parts. Tragically, five children under the age of 10 were among the deceased, further deepening the sorrow felt nationwide.
In response to the calamity, South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok has declared a special disaster zone, allowing for government aid to be allocated to affected families. Flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended, as grieving relatives gather at the terminal seeking answers. The Red Cross has set up spaces for mourning families, while the government has initiated a week of national mourning, encouraging citizens to lower flags at public buildings in remembrance of the victims.
Initial investigations are underway as fire officials speculate that a bird strike may have contributed to the crash, alongside adverse weather conditions. A South Korean transport official mentioned that the plane received a bird strike warning shortly before the landing attempt, leading to a Mayday call from the pilot just moments later. Eyewitness reports detailed a loud bang followed by explosions, with video evidence showing the aircraft engulfed in flames.
Lee Jeong-hyun, the head of the Muan fire department, confirmed that while rescue crews managed to identify the tail section of the plane, the rest of the fuselage was unrecognizable. The head of Jeju Air stated that there were no maintenance issues prior to the flight, assuaging concerns about mechanical failure. Additionally, the pilot, boasting over 6,800 hours of experience, had held his position since 2019.
As the recovery efforts continue, more than 1,500 emergency personnel have been deployed to search for remains and aircraft parts. Tragically, five children under the age of 10 were among the deceased, further deepening the sorrow felt nationwide.
In response to the calamity, South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok has declared a special disaster zone, allowing for government aid to be allocated to affected families. Flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended, as grieving relatives gather at the terminal seeking answers. The Red Cross has set up spaces for mourning families, while the government has initiated a week of national mourning, encouraging citizens to lower flags at public buildings in remembrance of the victims.
