Muan County, South Korea, Dec 29 – A devastating airplane crash at Muan International Airport claimed at least 124 lives when a Jeju Air flight arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, attempted to land under distressing circumstances. The flight, carrying 181 individuals, belly-landed, veered off the runway, and erupted into flames after crashing into a barrier, marking one of South Korea’s deadliest aviation disasters in recent decades.
The Fatal Incident
Jeju Air flight 7C2216 was scheduled to land shortly after 9 a.m. but faced catastrophic complications during its descent. Eyewitness footage revealed the aircraft skidding down the runway without its landing gear deployed. Moments later, the plane struck a wall, resulting in a massive fireball that engulfed much of the aircraft.
Emergency responders worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames by early afternoon, though the intensity of the crash left the fuselage almost unrecognizable. According to officials, only the tail section of the aircraft retained some semblance of its original form.
Recovery Efforts and Devastating Aftermath
Two crew members were pulled from the tail section with serious injuries and are receiving medical treatment. Recovery operations have shifted from rescue to retrieval as authorities scour the surrounding area for remains of passengers who may have been ejected during the impact. The crash site is reportedly littered with debris, and workers in protective suits and masks continue to comb the area for evidence and remains.
Grief-stricken families gathered at the airport, seeking information about their loved ones. Some relatives voiced their anguish, while others pleaded for privacy during their time of mourning. Temporary mortuary arrangements were established near the crash site to handle the large number of fatalities.
Investigation Underway
Initial findings indicate that a bird strike might have been responsible for the malfunction of the landing gear. Airport authorities had issued warnings of bird activity shortly before the crash, and pilots declared a mayday call moments before the plane attempted its ill-fated landing. Reports indicate that one passenger even texted a relative about a bird being stuck in the wing, asking, “Should I say my last words?”
Officials are also examining weather conditions as a contributing factor to the accident. Further investigation will involve examining flight data and the aircraft’s maintenance history.
The Victims
The majority of the passengers onboard were South Korean nationals, with two Thai citizens also confirmed to have been on the flight. Thai authorities are coordinating with South Korean officials to support the families of the deceased and injured.
Jeju Air’s Response
Jeju Air, a prominent South Korean low-cost carrier founded in 2005, expressed deep regret over the incident. Its CEO publicly apologized, vowing full cooperation with investigators and prioritizing support for the victims’ families. The airline stated that the aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, had no prior history of accidents and was last manufactured in 2009.
Global Condolences and National Efforts
The tragedy has prompted responses from leaders worldwide. South Korea’s acting president visited the crash site and assured the public that all possible resources were being mobilized to address the aftermath of the crash. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra extended condolences and directed the foreign ministry to assist affected Thai citizens.
All flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended indefinitely, as authorities focus on recovery efforts and piecing together the events leading to this catastrophe. Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, has also expressed condolences and offered support for the investigation.
Aviation History in Mourning
This crash marks South Korea’s most significant air disaster in nearly 30 years. The nation and international aviation community are left grappling with the loss as authorities work to uncover the precise cause of the tragedy and prevent such incidents in the future.
With the lives of over 124 individuals lost, this calamity serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of air travel and the need for continual advancements in aviation safety.