A tragic aviation disaster unfolded on December 29, 2024, when a Jeju Air flight crashed during its landing approach at Muan International Airport, South Korea. The aircraft, carrying 181 people, including 175 passengers and six crew members, reportedly failed to deploy its landing gear properly, leading to the catastrophic incident.
The flight, designated as 7C2216, originated from Bangkok, Thailand, and was attempting to land at Muan Airport when it veered off the runway around 9:07 AM local time. Eyewitness accounts and video footage shared on social media depicted the aircraft gracefully gliding without its landing gear before colliding with the airport's perimeter wall, resulting in devastation and flames.
Initial reports from local emergency services indicated at least 28 fatalities. This number quickly became the topic of urgent discussion, with figures later skyrocketing, as different sources reported up to 120 deceased. Rescuers were quick on the scene, confirming two survivors pulled from the wreckage, but the rescue operations faced significant challenges due to the fire enveloping the airplane.
According to Yonhap news agency, Korean firefighters fought the flames, which took approximately forty-seven minutes to control. The precarious situation became more chaotic as the smoke billowed, causing alarm to ground crew and nearby residents. Lee Hyeon-ji, from Jeolla's South Fire Department, stated, “At this moment, we have confirmed 29 deaths from the accident... But the toll could rise due to serious injuries.”
The potential causes of this devastating incident are under investigation. Authorities have suggested bird strikes may have interfered with the plane’s landing gear functionality. Reports from a passenger suggested he sent his last text expressing fear, stating, "Should I say my last words?" These haunting messages add to the tragic narrative surrounding the flight.
The crash occurs amid significant political turmoil within South Korea, as Choi Sang-mok, the newly appointed acting president taking charge after the abrupt ousting of his predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, faces scrutiny and pressure to respond effectively. Choi ordered all emergency resources to be utilized for rescue operations, placing the nation's political focus on the airport disaster, rather than the crisis from recent governmental changes.
This isn't the first time South Korea has grappled with tragic events. It recalls the haunting memories of the Sewol ferry disaster, where 304 lives were lost, prompting national introspection and political upheaval. This latest incident raises similar sentiments, as citizens demand answers and accountability, and exactly what went wrong onboard flight 7C2216.
The recovery team is striving to identify victims, many of whom remain unrecognizable due to the fire's intensity. With 173 passengers believed to be South Korean and two from Thailand, the emotional toll on families and communities will undoubtedly resonate throughout the nation.
All flights at Muan Airport have been canceled following the crash, as officials work diligently to process the incident and begin investigating the cause. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft's black box to glean insights on technical failures leading up to the crash.
Choi Sang-mok has urged prompt and thorough investigations. The government aims to respond not just to this tragedy but also to provide assurance to the public about aviation safety standards moving forward. An investigation report from aviation authorities is anticipated soon. With the nation on high alert, the story of flight 7C2216 will be followed closely by media, government officials, and the general public.
Through these tragic times, updates will be continually monitored. With active recovery operations and communication lines open to the public, Jeju Air remains at the focal point of discussion as details surrounding the crash continue coming to light.