Jeju Air 737 crashes at Muan International Airport

Jeju Air Flight 7C-2216 Crashes at Muan International Airport, Resulting in 179 Fatalities

On December 29, 2024, Jeju Air Flight 7C-2216, a Boeing 737-800, crashed during landing at Muan International Airport in South Korea, leading to the tragic loss of 179 lives. 

Flight Details and Incident Overview

The aircraft departed from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members.Upon approach to Muan International Airport, the plane experienced a malfunction with its landing gear, resulting in a gear-up landing.The aircraft skidded off the runway, collided with a perimeter wall, and subsequently burst into flames. 

Casualties and Survivors

Out of the 181 individuals on board, only two survived the crash.The majority of the passengers were South Korean nationals, with reports indicating the presence of two Thai nationals among the victims. 

Potential Causes Under Investigation

Preliminary investigations suggest that a bird strike may have contributed to the landing gear failure.Air traffic controllers had issued warnings about bird activity in the vicinity shortly before the incident.Additionally, there were reports of engine issues during the approach. 

Aircraft Background

The aircraft involved, registered as HL8088, was a Boeing 737-800 delivered in 2009. It initially operated for Ryanair before joining Jeju Air's fleet in 2017. 

Official Responses and Ongoing Investigation

South Korean authorities, along with Jeju Air, have initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. The black box has been recovered, and analysis is underway.Interim President Choi Sang-mok and Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra have expressed condolences to the victims' families. 

Historical Context

This incident marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea's history, raising concerns about aviation safety standards and emergency response protocols within the region.

As the investigation progresses, further details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the factors that led to this catastrophic event.

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