Families Celebrate Milestones Turned Tragic in Jeju Air Flight Disaster

A Jeju Air plane crash-landed at Muan International Airport in South Korea today. According to the reports by BBC, Associated Press 179 passengers and crew died in this terrible accident which happened during the year end. There were 181 people on the plane.

The Boeing 737-800 was operating as Flight 2216. The flight  was returning from Bangkok, Thailand. The aircraft skidded off the runway, and crashed into a wall. It led to an explosion which turned in flames. In the passengers i173 South Koreans and two Thai nationals.  Many of them were enjoying the holidays.

According to the reports in this crash there were few victim families who were celebrating the milestone, such as the nephews and great-nephews of 78-year-old Maeng Gi-su, who was on his first trip abroad.

Investigation Underway

After the accident now authorities are conducting investigation. Initial reports are showing that interference by a bird have caused issues with the landing gear. The pilot with over 6,800 flight hours tried for an emergency landing after a bird strike.

Acting President Choi Sang-mok visited the crash site and expressed condolences to the victims’ families. The disaster is South Korea’s worst aviation tragedy since the 1997 Korean Air crash in Guam.

Jeju Air’s Statement

At the time Jeju Air executives apologized publicly, promising full cooperation in the investigation. This marks the airline’s first fatal accident since its establishment in 2005.

Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft, stated it is in contact with Jeju Air and committed to assisting in the investigation.

Apart from President Chou Sang-mok, leaders from different corners of the world, showed their concern and voiced up for South Korea.

Ukranian President, Zelenskyy posted a tweet on his X profile to show grief to Korea Air crash.

Indian Foreign Minister S. JaiShankar tweeted, ” Deeply saddened by the tragic airplane crash at the Muan international airport….”

This crash is a grim reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the lives at stake with each flight.