Picture credits: to its respective owners
Muan County: A devastating plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea claimed the lives of 179 people on Sunday, December 29, 2024, including a 3-year-old boy. The Jeju Air flight, identified as 7C2216, was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members from Bangkok when it tragically crash-landed.
According to officials, the plane veered off the runway during landing and collided with a concrete barrier before bursting into flames. Only two crew members survived, rescued from the tail section of the wreckage with significant injuries. The rest of the aircraft was completely destroyed in the fiery crash.
Preliminary reports suggest the crash was likely caused by a combination of adverse weather conditions and a bird strike. However, a detailed investigation is underway, with both black boxes recovered to analyze flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
Footage of the incident shows the jet skidding off the runway before colliding with the barrier and bursting into flames.
In a heartfelt statement, Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation with the investigation. He emphasized that the aircraft, in service for 15 years, had no prior safety issues.
Witnesses described hearing loud explosions during the crash, with one noting the plane’s struggle to land on its second attempt.
Among the 179 victims, 56 have been identified so far, with the majority being South Korean nationals and two Thai passengers. The South Korean government has mobilized over 700 personnel, including police, military, and Coast Guard teams, to aid in recovery and victim identification efforts.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok offered condolences and assured the public that measures would be taken to prevent future tragedies.
Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft, has expressed its readiness to support Jeju Air as investigations continue. The incident has sent shockwaves across South Korea, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in the nation’s history.
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