In a harrowing incident, a Korean Air Boeing 737 Max 8 plane experienced a sudden descent of over 25,000 feet due to a malfunction in its pressurization system, forcing the crew to initiate an emergency landing. The flight, KE189, had departed Seoul’s Incheon International Airport bound for Taichung International Airport in Taiwan on June 22, 2024, but encountered the alarming situation approximately 50 minutes into the journey.
The aircraft began descending sharply, dropping approximately 26,900 feet in just 15 minutes. The incident unfolded while the plane was flying over Jeju Island, and a message indicating an ”abnormality” in the pressure control function of the aircraft was displayed.
As the plane rapidly lost altitude, passengers experienced hyperventilation and ear pain, prompting the deployment of oxygen masks throughout the cabin. Witnesses recounted scenes of panic, with children crying and passengers expressing concern as the aircraft made its descent.
Upon landing in Taichung, Taiwan, 17 individuals were evaluated at medical facilities, fortunately without severe injuries, and were later discharged. Korean Air issued an apology to all affected passengers and assured full cooperation with authorities in investigating the incident. The airline provided comprehensive support, including accommodations, meals, and transportation arrangements, to those impacted.
The flight resumed the following morning with a different aircraft, marking a delay of approximately 19 hours from the original departure schedule. Passengers expressed their fear and reluctance to fly again soon after the harrowing experience.
Korean Air announced plans for a thorough investigation into the pressurization system malfunction, aiming to address any maintenance issues before returning the affected aircraft to service. This incident adds to the ongoing scrutiny faced by Boeing, which has been under significant pressure due to a series of incidents involving their planes in recent times.
Sources By Agencies
