Investigation Underway After South Korean Plane Crash Linked to Bird Strike
A tragic aircraft crash in South Korea involving a Boeing 737-800 from Jeju Air has led to a growing investigation into the potential causes of the incident. The pilots reported a bird strike shortly before the crash, as confirmed by the news agency Yonhap, citing the Ministry of Transport. This revelation raises critical questions about the link between the bird collision and issues with the aircraft's landing gear.
On the morning of the incident at Muan Airport, the flight crew issued a Mayday distress signal following the bird strike. Unfortunately, the aircraft landed without its landing gear extended, failed to stop in time, and crashed into a wall. Out of 181 individuals on board, only two crew members survived, marking a devastating toll.
In the aftermath, South Korea's interim president, Choi Sangmok, has mandated a thorough safety review of the nation’s aviation system. He urged the Ministry of Transport to conduct an emergency safety inspection of all flight operations to prevent a recurrence of such a tragic event. “As soon as the recovery operations are completed, it is imperative that we ensure the safety of our aviation system,” Choi stated during a crisis management meeting in Seoul.
Investigators are working diligently to determine the crash’s causes, with hopes pinned on insights from the two recovered flight recorders, one of which was damaged in the crash. Analyzing the data may take months, but experts are on high alert given the mounting questions surrounding the accident. Key among these inquiries is why the Boeing 737-800 appeared to be traveling at high speed upon landing and why the landing gear was not deployed.
Additionally, reports surfaced of another incident involving a Jeju Air aircraft just one day after the crash. Domestic flight 7C101, also a Boeing 737-800, had to return to Gimpo International Airport shortly after takeoff due to landing gear problems. In light of these events, the South Korean government has mandated inspections of all 737-800 aircraft operated by domestic airlines, scrutinizing maintenance records and adherence to safety regulations.
Muan Airport will remain closed until Wednesday, while other airports across South Korea, including the main Incheon International Airport, continue to operate without interruption. The crash has significantly impacted Jeju Air’s operations, with shares of the airline plummeting by up to 15.7% to a record low.
In an international effort to investigate the crash, US authorities have offered assistance. Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, contacted Jeju Air shortly after the incident, and US President Joe Biden expressed condolences, stating that the thoughts and prayers of the American people are with the victims’ families. He also noted that the United States stands ready to provide necessary support.
The nation is in mourning following the disaster, which comes during a period of crisis, with President Yoon Sukyeol suspended from duties. In response, interim President Choi declared a seven-day national mourning period and is discussing possible aid measures for the victims’ families with the parliament speaker, Woo Wonshik.
This incident underscores the critical nature of aviation safety protocols and the necessity of thorough investigations to ensure the safety of air travel in South Korea and beyond.
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