By Smartencyclopedia with Agencies
South Korea is mourning one of the deadliest aviation disasters in its history as authorities confirmed the deaths of 177 passengers following the crash of a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 at Muan International Airport. Two individuals remain missing, and only two crew members survived the tragedy.
The Incident
The ill-fated Flight 2216, carrying 181 passengers and crew from Bangkok to Muan, crashed on Sunday morning at approximately 9:07 a.m. local time. Reports indicate that the aircraft veered off the runway during landing, skidded along the ground without functioning landing gear, collided with a fence, and slammed into a concrete wall before erupting into flames.
Moments before the crash, the control tower warned the pilot of a potential bird strike. Witnesses reported seeing flames emanating from one of the jet’s engines and hearing multiple explosions.
Local resident Yoo Jae-yong described the harrowing scene:
“I noticed a spark on the plane’s right wing as it approached. Moments later, a deafening explosion shook the area.”
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
Among the passengers were 93 women, 82 men, and six crew members, ranging in age from three to 78. The two surviving crew members were discovered in the tail section of the aircraft and transported to a Seoul hospital in critical condition.
Firefighters and emergency responders rushed to the scene but faced enormous challenges due to the extent of the blaze and debris. A temporary morgue was established at Muan airport as recovery operations continued.
“After the plane collided with the wall, passengers were thrown from the aircraft. The chances of survival were extremely low,” said a firefighting agency official.
Investigations Underway
Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, with preliminary reports pointing to potential mechanical failure exacerbated by the bird strike. Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae offered his condolences and pledged full cooperation with ongoing investigations.
US aviation manufacturer Boeing also expressed sympathy, stating:
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and are in contact with Jeju Air to provide support.”
Government Response
Acting President Choi Sung-mok convened an emergency meeting, directing a full-scale rescue effort and calling for comprehensive investigations. Choi assured families of the deceased that the government would provide support and resources during this difficult time.
The crash, which has claimed the lives of predominantly Korean nationals, as well as two Thai passengers, is the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korea since the 1997 Korean Air crash in Guam, which killed 225 people.
A Nation in Mourning
The tragedy has shocked South Korea, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for the victims’ families. Airlines across the region have tightened safety measures in response to the incident, and Muan International Airport’s runway will remain closed until January 1 to facilitate rescue and recovery efforts.
The crash underscores the enduring challenges of aviation safety and the devastating consequences of even minor errors in complex systems. As investigations continue, the nation will grapple with the loss while seeking answers to prevent such tragedies in the future.