South Korea Plane Crash Claims 177 Lives in Devastating Tragedy
A catastrophic plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea on Sunday morning has claimed the lives of 177 people, leaving only two survivors from the 181 passengers and crew onboard.
The Boeing 737-800 jet, operated by Jeju Air, was engulfed in flames after skidding down the runway and smashing into a wall, resulting in a fiery explosion that scattered debris across the tarmac. Dramatic footage captured the jet’s final moments as it burst into flames, marking one of South Korea’s deadliest aviation disasters.
Search and Rescue Efforts Continue
Emergency responders are working tirelessly to recover victims from the charred wreckage and surrounding grass areas. While two survivors were pulled from the tail section of the plane, authorities have acknowledged the slim chances of finding any more survivors.
Suspected Causes: Bird Strike and Landing Gear Malfunction
Preliminary investigations suggest the crash may have been caused by a bird strike and a malfunction in the landing gear during the flight from Bangkok, Thailand. Officials are conducting a detailed inquiry to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
Historical Context: Worst Disaster Since 1997
The crash is South Korea’s most significant aviation disaster since the 1997 Korean Airlines Flight 801 crash in Guam, which killed 228 people.
Nation Declares Mourning Period
Acting President Choi Sang-mok announced a week-long national mourning period to honor the victims of the tragedy.
International Condolences and Support
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed his condolences to the people of South Korea and Thailand, offering heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims. “Deeply saddened by the news of the plane crash overnight in South Korea,” Lammy wrote on social media.
Jeju Air Pledges Assistance
Jeju Air, the operator of the ill-fated flight, has pledged full support for victims and their families. The airline confirmed the plane was insured for up to $1 billion and dispatched over 260 employees to Muan Airport to assist with relief efforts. Additionally, Jeju Air arranged accommodations for grieving families in South Jeolla Province.
Bird Strike Under Investigation
Officials are investigating whether a bird strike, which occurs when birds collide with an aircraft, contributed to the crash. Bird strikes can be hazardous, particularly if birds are sucked into jet engines, causing power loss. A similar event occurred in 2009 during the “Miracle on the Hudson,” when a US Airways plane safely ditched into New York’s Hudson River following a bird strike.
Victim Demographics
Authorities confirmed that among the victims were five children under the age of 10, including the youngest passenger, a three-year-old boy. The oldest victim was 78 years old.
This tragic incident has cast a shadow over South Korea and the global aviation community, prompting renewed focus on air safety measures and investigations into potential preventable factors.