The investigation continues following the tragic crash of Jeju Air flight on December 29, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of 179 people and left only two survivors intact. The incident occurred at Muan International Airport, where the aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, approached for landing without its landing gear deployed. This led to the plane skidding off the runway, colliding with a barrier, and igniting in flames. The authorities have since announced the extension of the airport's closure until January 14, 2025, to facilitate comprehensive investigations.
According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, this closure was deemed necessary as investigations progressed, allowing officials to examine the incident's repercussions thoroughly. Although the ministry did not provide explicit reasons for the extended closure, it was previously suggested by Traffic Secretary Joo Jong Wan. He indicated the possibility of prolonged closures due to the extensive investigations underway.
Investigators remain focused on discerning the precise cause of the crash. A possible bird strike has been highlighted as the aircraft approached the airport, coupled with theories about engine failure. Failure to extend the landing gear led to the aircraft's belly landing, leading to the fatal consequences. The analysis of the aircraft's black boxes by members of South Korea’s aviation safety agency, assisted by experts from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Boeing, is of utmost importance.
Alongside the technical investigations, on January 6, 2025, the South Korean police confirmed the launch of an inquiry connected to a concerning email received from Japan. This email, attributed to someone claiming to be a Japanese lawyer, asserted responsibility for the crash, inciting fears due to its subsequent bomb threat targeting several urban areas within South Korea. The National Police Agency has stated intent to collaborate with their Japanese counterparts through Interpol, seeking justice and clarifying any connections to this alarming claim.
The email is not taken lightly; it recalls past threats where similar packages were sent to Korean organizations. The authorities are treating it as potentially connected to the same individual behind those threats. Besides investigating the email, the police are also closely monitoring online comments for any expressions of malice against the victims and their families, aiming to maintain dignity during this harrowing time.
The South Korean government has completed the transfer of the deceased victims' remains to their families, marking this emotional moment as they prepared for final farewells. Interior Minister Ko Ki-dong confirmed, "We have completed the handover of all 179 bodies of the victims of the Jeju Air crash to their families and relatives," assuring families of continued governmental assistance as they navigate their grief.
To bolster affixed safety across the aviation sector, the Korean government has mandated comprehensive inspections of all 101 Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by six local airlines. This move signifies their commitment to aftermath accountability and proactive safety measures, ensuring the tragic event does not repeat.
The investigation remains fluid as authorities sift through evidence and testimonies. The dual focus includes identifying responsibility for the crash and evaluating the impact of the bomb threat email. Both aspects pose integral questions for the aviation and public safety sectors, determining both preventive actions and reassurances needed post-crisis. Only time will reveal the full scope of the incident.
Despite recent tragedies, all eyes are on investigators as they piece together the segments of this complex puzzle, from mechanical failure to international threats. Transparency and thoroughness are of utmost importance to restore faith and security among the public and within the aviation industry.