A tragic plane crash occurred at Muan International Airport in South Korea on Sunday, December 29, 2024, resulting in the loss of 177 of the 181 people on board the plane. The Jeju Air plane, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, was arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, when it veered off the runway and crashed into a concrete wall, causing a fire.
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The crash and rescue efforts The plane, a Boeing 737-800, was attempting to land at Muan Airport when its front landing gear failed to function, causing it to veer off the runway and crash into a concrete barrier. The impact and subsequent fire were so fierce that only two people, both crew members, could be rescued from the wreckage. Rescue efforts were led by more than 1,500 emergency workers, including firefighters, police officers, and military personnel, who worked tirelessly to recover the bodies of the victims.
The crash and rescue efforts Accident and rescue efforts The cause of the crash is under investigation, but initial reports suggest a bird strike may have been the cause. Failure of the plane's landing gear and adverse weather conditions are also being considered as possible causes. The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder have been recovered from the wreckage, and officials are analyzing the data to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Victims and survivors The victims of the crash included 83 women, 82 men, and 11 other people whose gender was not immediately identified. Two survivors, both flight attendants, were rescued from the rear of the plane and are being treated for their injuries. The survivors were seated in the rear of the plane, which is believed to be the only part that remained partially intact after the crash.
Response and aftermath The South Korean government has declared the crash site a special disaster zone, and emergency responders are working to recover the bodies of the victims. South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered the mobilization of all available resources for rescue and recovery efforts. The government has also set up a support center for the families of the victims, who are awaiting news of their loved ones at the airport.
Aviation safety record The accident is a major setback for South Korea's aviation industry, which has a solid safety record. The country's airlines have a reputation for being safe and reliable, and this accident is the first fatal accident for Jeju Air. The incident has raised concerns about the need for continued vigilance and improvements in aviation safety and security protocols.
International reaction The international community has reacted to the tragic incident with shock and condolences. The Thai government, whose citizens were among the passengers, has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims. Boeing Company, which made the aircraft, has also issued a statement expressing its condolences and offering support in the investigation.