A devastating plane crash at South Korea’s Muan International Airport has left all but two of the 181 persons on board feared dead. The Jeju Air flight, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, was returning from Bangkok, Thailand, when it veered off the runway during landing and erupted into a catastrophic blaze.
A heartbreaking revelation: A passenger on Jeju Air flight 7C2216 reportedly messaged their family moments before the crash, saying, “We can’t land because a bird is stuck in the wing.” Their final words were, “Should I leave a last message?” before communication was lost. pic.twitter.com/jWL89pXrg8
— Shanghai Daily (@shanghaidaily) December 29, 2024
Videos captured moments before the crash show the plane scraping along its underbody before colliding with a wall and erupting into flames. The aircraft, carrying 181 people from Bangkok, Thailand, to Muan, South Korea, suffered a catastrophic failure during landing.
According to South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, the National Fire Agency reported rescuing two individuals, with the rest feared dead.
Visuals of the crash depict the aircraft dragging on its belly, indicating a failed landing gear deployment. A Yonhap report, citing airport authorities, suggests that the pilot attempted an emergency belly landing after a standard approach failed. Witness accounts point to a possible bird strike as the cause of the malfunction. “Signs indicate that the landing gear, including the tires, did not activate, likely leading to the crash landing attempt,” the report stated, adding that adverse weather conditions may have worsened the situation.
Rescue Operations Conclude, Grim Toll Emerges
Rescue operations have concluded, revealing a devastating toll. While two passengers were initially found alive, the majority of those on board perished in the crash. The National Fire Agency confirmed 85 fatalities, including 46 women and 39 men. The fire that engulfed the aircraft was extinguished, but the extent of the damage made rescue efforts extremely challenging.
Investigation Focuses on Bird Strike and Weather Conditions
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but initial reports point to a possible bird strike as a contributing factor. The aircraft reportedly experienced a landing gear malfunction, potentially caused by bird impact, leading to a difficult landing. Adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, may have further complicated the situation.
A Nation in Mourning
South Korea is in a state of shock and mourning as the nation grapples with this tragic loss of life. President Yoon Suk-yeol expressed his deep condolences to the families of the victims and instructed authorities to mobilize all available resources for rescue, recovery, and investigation efforts.
Jeju Air Expresses Deepest Apologies
Jeju Air, one of South Korea’s largest low-cost carriers, issued a heartfelt apology for the tragic accident. The airline stated that it would do everything in its power to assist in the investigation and support the families of the victims.
Airport Operations Suspended
All domestic and international flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended following the crash. The airport remains closed as authorities conduct a thorough investigation and work to clear the wreckage.
Note: This information is based on the latest reports available. The situation is dynamic, and further updates may emerge as the investigation progresses.
Additional Details:
- Aircraft Type: Boeing 737-8AS
- Flight Number: Jeju Air flight 2216
- Time of Crash: Approximately 9:03 AM local time
- Emergency Response: 32 fire trucks and several helicopters were deployed to the scene.
- Safety Record: This is the first fatal accident in the history of Jeju Air, which has an otherwise strong safety record.
