Jeju Air’s Boeing 737-800 crashed at Muan International Airport in South Korea, killing 179 of the 181 people on board. Only two crew members survived. The accident occurred during an emergency landing, likely due to a landing gear malfunction, potentially caused by a bird strike.
South Korea’s Ministry of Transportation has launched an inspection of all 101 Boeing 737-800s in service in the country, 39 of which belong to Jeju Air. The investigation focuses on the maintenance of these devices, widely used by low-cost companies and therefore subject to intensive use. Previous similar incidents, including a recent one involving the same Jeju Air model, raise concerns.
The black boxes were recovered and analyzed in Seoul, with the collaboration of Boeing, the American NTSB and the engine manufacturer. The investigation aims to determine the existence of potential technical failures. The condition of the airport’s concrete wall, affected during the impact, is also examined.
The families of the victims, supported by groups, demand total transparency. National mourning was declared. This disaster has a major impact on the South Korean airline industry and on Boeing’s reputation. An emergency safety inspection has been ordered for all local airlines. Jeju Air denies negligence, despite anonymous accusations of covering up past technical problems.
The Boeing 737-800, popular with low-cost airlines, is increasingly criticized for recurring failures, with similar incidents reported elsewhere in the world. Jeju Air’s stock fell 15% after the accident. This tragedy, the deadliest in South Korean aviation history, could lead to significant changes in air safety policies and the regulation of low-cost airlines.
