Tragic Plane Crash in South Korea Claims 179 Lives: Nation in Mourning

 

Muan, South Korea (Dec. 28, 2024) – South Korea is reeling from its deadliest aviation disaster in history after a Boeing 737-800 carrying 181 passengers and crew crashed at Muan International Airport on Sunday morning. The accident claimed the lives of 175 passengers and four crew members, leaving only two survivors, both flight attendants.

The ill-fated Jeju Air flight 2216, which departed from Bangkok, encountered difficulties during landing when an apparent bird strike caused significant engine damage. The aircraft skidded off the runway during an emergency landing attempt, collided with a concrete barrier, and burst into flames.

The two surviving flight attendants are receiving treatment at a Seoul hospital. One of them is in intensive care with severe injuries, including fractures to the ribs, shoulder blade, and spine.

“I woke up to find myself rescued,” the injured flight attendant reportedly told medical personnel.

At the crash site, the stench of kerosene lingered as debris, including charred plane seats and suitcases, lay scattered around the wreckage. Inside the airport terminal, grief-stricken family members anxiously awaited news of their loved ones, many breaking down as officials confirmed the devastating loss of life.

One elderly man, searching for his son among the victims, said, “I came to the airport to pick up my son, but I’ve heard nothing.”

Among the victims were five children under the age of 10, with the youngest being a three-year-old boy.

Witnesses described harrowing moments leading up to the crash. Yoo Jae-yong, who was staying near the airport, recalled seeing sparks on the plane's right wing. "I was telling my family something was wrong when I heard a loud explosion," he said.

Another witness, Kim Yong-cheol, noted that the plane circled back after failing its initial landing attempt. He described hearing "metallic scraping" sounds before the aircraft erupted into flames.

Investigations Underway
South Korean officials, with assistance from U.S. investigators, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are examining the crash. Preliminary reports suggest a bird strike and adverse weather conditions may have contributed to the accident.

The plane’s flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered and will be analyzed to determine the exact cause.

President Choi Sang-mok, who assumed office just days ago, visited the crash site and pledged full government support for the investigation and recovery efforts. The government declared a seven-day national mourning period, with memorial altars to be set up across the country.

“Our hearts are broken for the families of the victims,” said President Choi.

U.S. President Joe Biden extended condolences, expressing solidarity with South Korea during this tragic time.

The tragedy has sparked anger among families over perceived delays in the airline's and government’s response. Many were denied access to the crash site, compounding their grief.

Amid the sorrow, haunting messages have surfaced, including a final text from a passenger on the plane: “A bird is stuck in the wing. Unable to land now … should I leave a will?”

The country faces immense grief and pressing questions as it seeks to uncover the full story behind this devastating event.