A devastating aviation disaster has plunged South Korea into mourning after a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash-landed and erupted into flames at Muan International Airport, killing more than 170 people. The tragedy, one of the country’s worst aviation disasters, occurred on Sunday morning as the aircraft attempted to land following a bird strike that crippled its landing gear.
A Catastrophic Landing
The plane, en route from Bangkok, was carrying 181 passengers and crew when the pilot issued a mayday call shortly before the crash. According to South Korea’s Transport Ministry, the aircraft aborted its first landing attempt after the bird strike damaged its systems. On the second attempt, the landing gear failed to deploy, causing the plane to skid down the runway at high speed. It ultimately slammed into a concrete barrier at the end of the strip, igniting a massive fire.
Emergency responders managed to pull two crew members from the wreckage. Both are reportedly conscious and in stable condition. Tragically, the majority of those on board were unable to escape the inferno, with officials confirming that most of the 181 people aboard perished in the disaster.
Aging Aircraft and Urgent Questions
The ill-fated plane, a 15-year-old Boeing 737-800, raises concerns about the maintenance and operational oversight of aging aircraft. The Transport Ministry has launched a full investigation into the incident, with early attention focused on the bird strike, the malfunctioning landing gear, and the plane’s condition.
Global Condolences and Outpouring of Grief
South Korea’s President Yoon Suk-yeol expressed profound sorrow and pledged full support for the victims’ families. “This is a moment of deep tragedy for our nation. We will ensure a thorough investigation to prevent such a catastrophe from happening again,” he said.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen conveyed her condolences, stating she was “heartbroken to see images of the plane crash in Muan.” World leaders, including those from neighboring countries, have joined in expressing their sympathies.
South Korea’s Aviation Tragedy: A Nation in Mourning
This disaster marks one of the deadliest in South Korea’s aviation history, shaking a nation known for its advanced infrastructure and safety measures. The tragedy has ignited calls for enhanced aviation safety protocols and a closer examination of emergency response systems at airports.
As investigators comb through the wreckage for answers, families of the victims are left grappling with unimaginable loss. A thorough investigation will be critical not only to uncover the cause but also to ensure such a tragedy never repeats itself.