South Korean Plane Crash: Deadly Accident Claims Lives as Landing Gear Malfunctions
A devastating aviation disaster unfolded in South Korea on Sunday, December 29, 2024, when a passenger plane burst into flames after skidding off the runway at Muan International Airport. The aircraft, operated by Jeju Air, was carrying 181 people when its landing gear apparently failed to deploy, leading to a catastrophic crash into a concrete fence.
The Crash and Immediate Aftermath
The incident occurred at approximately 9:03 AM local time. According to the National Fire Agency, the plane caught fire upon impact after skidding across the airstrip with its landing gear still closed. Emergency footage broadcasted by YTN television showed the aircraft colliding head-on with a concrete wall on the outskirts of the runway.
Emergency services were deployed immediately, with 32 fire trucks and several helicopters rushing to the scene to contain the fire and assist survivors. Although the fire was largely extinguished, rescue operations continued as emergency workers worked tirelessly to pull survivors from the wreckage. So far, two individuals—a passenger and a crew member—have been rescued.
Tragically, the crash has claimed the lives of at least 85 people, marking one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korean history.
Details of the Flight and Investigation
The Jeju Air flight was returning from Bangkok when the incident occurred. Among the passengers were two Thai nationals, according to the South Korean Transport Ministry. Investigators are focusing on the apparent malfunction of the plane's landing gear as a possible cause of the crash.
Historical Context
This disaster is among the worst aviation accidents in South Korea in recent years. The last major incident occurred in 1997 when a Korean Air flight crashed in Guam, resulting in 228 fatalities.
Impact on Muan International Airport
Muan International Airport has suspended all flights in the wake of the crash. Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the precise cause of the landing gear failure and to evaluate safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
This catastrophic event highlights the critical importance of stringent maintenance checks and advanced safety systems in aviation to ensure passenger safety.
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