Tragedy in South Korea: Jeju Air flight crashes during landing in Muan

A passenger plane operated by Jeju Air tragically crashed while landing at Muan International Airport in southwestern South Korea on Sunday, December 21. The Boeing 737-800, flying from Bangkok to Muan, was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members when the incident occurred at approximately 9 a.m.

At least 120 people have been confirmed dead, with two survivors rescued from the wreckage, according to the National Fire Agency. The remaining passengers are presumed dead as search and rescue operations continue.

The Crash

The plane, identified as Jeju Air flight 7C2216, overshot the runway during landing, crashing into a barrier and erupting into flames. Disturbing footage showed the aircraft sliding on its belly before exploding into an orange fireball. The tail section, engulfed in flames and emitting thick black smoke, was the only identifiable part of the plane.

“We could not recognize the rest of the fuselage,” said Lee Jeong-hyeon, the official overseeing search and rescue operations.

Photos from the scene captured the devastating aftermath, with debris scattered and emergency responders working tirelessly to recover victims.

Cause Under Investigation

The cause of the crash remains unknown. Officials are exploring various possibilities, including a bird strike that may have caused a landing gear malfunction. Ju Jong-wan, a director at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, confirmed the ongoing investigation.

This incident marks the first fatal crash for Jeju Air, a low-cost South Korean airline established in 2005. The company issued a brief apology, expressing condolences to the victims and their families.

Aviation Tragedy on an Unprecedented Scale

The crash is South Korea’s deadliest aviation accident since a 1997 Korean Air disaster in Guam, which claimed 229 lives. It has also raised concerns about aviation safety, particularly involving budget carriers like Jeju Air, which serves destinations across Asia.

The tragedy unfolds against a backdrop of political turmoil in South Korea, with the acting president, Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, mobilizing resources for rescue efforts.

Global Impact

Thailand’s Foreign Ministry confirmed two Thai nationals were aboard the plane, with their conditions yet to be verified. This international connection adds another layer of complexity to the tragedy, as global aviation experts await the investigation results.

As the world mourns this devastating accident, officials and aviation authorities will likely face increased scrutiny over airline safety protocols. [New York Times]