Tragedy struck at Muan International Airport on Sunday as Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, carrying 181 people, crashed during landing, claiming 179 lives. Only two crew members seated in the tail section survived. The South Korean government is now conducting a full-scale investigation into the incident, with emergency safety measures announced by Acting President Choi Sang-mok.
Final Minutes Before the Crash
According to details shared by South Korea’s transport ministry and fire authorities, the aircraft reportedly experienced a bird strike in its final moments. However, experts have raised questions about the plane’s unusually high speed and the apparent absence of its landing gear when it skidded down the runway.
The crash has led to intense scrutiny of Jeju Air’s operations, with some questioning whether the suspected bird strike was the sole cause or if operational or technical lapses contributed to the disaster.
Government Response
On Monday, Acting President Choi Sang-mok ordered an emergency safety inspection of South Korea’s entire airline operation system. “Even before the final results are out, we ask that officials transparently disclose the accident investigation process and promptly inform the bereaved families,” Choi said in a public statement.
Choi also directed the transport ministry to conduct a comprehensive review of the nation’s aviation safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Inspection of Boeing 737-800 Aircraft
The transport ministry is considering a special inspection of all 101 Boeing 737-800 planes operated by South Korean airlines. This model has been central to Jeju Air’s fleet, prompting calls for rigorous checks to ensure operational safety.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
Rescue teams are working to identify the victims, a painstaking process that has left families awaiting closure. The government has pledged to keep the investigation process transparent and provide timely updates to the bereaved families.
Experts’ Concerns
While the bird strike theory is being explored, aviation experts have raised alarms over the aircraft’s speed during landing and the absence of deployed landing gear. These anomalies have prompted speculation about potential mechanical failures or pilot error.
Looking Ahead
As South Korea mourns the loss of 179 lives, the focus shifts to preventing such tragedies in the future. The government’s emergency inspections and the transport ministry’s investigation into the Boeing 737-800 fleet underline the urgency of bolstering aviation safety.
Sources By Agencies
