Jeju Air Crash Claims 179 Lives
A Jeju Air flight tragically crashed at Muan International Airport in South Korea on Sunday, resulting in the loss of 179 lives. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, carrying 181 people, was en route from Bangkok, Thailand, to Muan when the accident occurred. The plane overshot the runway during landing, collided with a concrete fence, and burst into flames, leaving only the charred tail section visible.
Officials revealed that the crash occurred following a suspected landing gear malfunction. After an initial failed landing attempt, the pilot reported receiving a bird strike warning and declared an emergency. The aircraft attempted a belly landing, which tragically ended in disaster.
Two Crew Members Survive
Amidst the devastation, two flight attendants survived the crash. Seated in the tail section of the plane, statistically considered the safest spot in air accidents, the survivors were rescued and transported to hospitals in Seoul.
The survivors, identified as 32-year-old Lee and 25-year-old Kwon, sustained significant injuries, including fractures and head trauma. Hospital staff confirmed that their conditions are stable, and both remain conscious, though they have no clear memory of the event. Experts suggest their location in the rear section played a crucial role in their survival.
Authorities Begin Investigation
South Korean authorities have initiated an in-depth investigation to determine the cause of the crash. The plane’s two black boxes have been recovered and are being analyzed with the assistance of U.S. aviation experts, including representatives from Boeing.
Transport officials confirmed that all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by South Korean airlines will undergo thorough inspections. Families of the victims have started receiving the remains of their loved ones, with authorities working to identify all the deceased through DNA and fingerprint analysis.
A Tragic Loss
This crash marks South Korea’s deadliest aviation disaster in decades, leaving the nation in mourning. Passengers onboard ranged from a three-year-old child to a 78-year-old senior, with two Thai nationals also among the victims.
While the tragedy has raised questions about air travel safety, experts and officials are determined to uncover the reasons behind the crash to prevent similar incidents in the future. For now, the country mourns the loss of 179 lives and prays for the recovery of the two survivors.
Megan Davies is a reporter for White Pine Tribune. After graduating from the University of Toronto, Megan got an internship at the CBC News and worked as a reporter and editor. Megan has also worked as a reporter for Global Toronto. Megan covers economy and community events for White Pine Tribune.
