SEOUL: A tragic event struck South Korea on December 29 when Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, carrying 181 people, crashed during its landing attempt at Muan International Airport. Tragically, 179 souls perished, making this incident the deadliest plane crash in the nation’s history.
Acting Interior Minister Ko Ki-dong confirmed at a government meeting on January 1, 2024, the completion of the handover process for the bodies of the victims, which is set to conclude on Monday. "Today, the process of handing over the victims to families is expected to be completed," he stated, assuring continued support for the bereaved families following the funerals.
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft was returning to South Korea from Bangkok, Thailand, when it belly-landed, crashed through the runway barriers, and ignited. The South Korean authorities have ordered immediate investigations, with U.S. agencies and Boeing experts also on the scene.
Investigators are currently examining potential causes for the crash, focusing on the possibility of multiple issues including bird strikes, malfunctioning landing gear, and concrete barrier impacts as contributing factors. Joo Jong-wan, South Korea's Deputy Minister for Civil Aviation, revealed, "If the investigation gets longer, the period of closure (of Muan International Airport) is susceptible to change," as the airport remains shut until at least January 14.
Authorities have conducted extensive search-and-seizure operations at the airport and the office of Jeju Air, amid heightened scrutiny over aircraft safety. The Transport Ministry took proactive measures by initiating inspections of all 101 Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by six airlines within the country.
Simultaneously, a joint investigation team consisting of South Korean authorities, U.S representatives, and Boeing specialists has been assembled to investigate the accident. The flight recorder, which was impacted during the crash, will be sent to the U.S. for detailed analysis.
The crash has ignited nationwide mourning, with memorials being established as the nation reflects on the scale of this tragedy. Investigative reports suggest the pilot had raised concerns concerning potential bird strikes, attempting to divert during the first landing attempt before tragically crashing during the second attempt.
Adding to the troubling news, South Korean police have revealed the emergence of threats linked to the crash. The authorities believe the individual threatening to detonate bombs across South Korea may be connected to the crash incidents. A subsequent request will be made to the Japanese police for their cooperation as authorities pursue international criminal justice via diplomatic channels.
The South Korean government, recognizing the pain and loss incurred from this disaster, has emphasized its commitment to supporting the victims' families. An organization is being formed to aid families through the grieving process, illustrating the government's desire to assist those affected by this unspeakable tragedy.
The full investigation is expected to be thorough, reflecting on every aspect of the disaster and seeking to prevent such incidents from ever occurring again. With the mourning still palpable through the country, the hope remains to honor the memory of those lost as efforts to understand the cause of the crash continue.