Aviation analysts are examining several factors that may have contributed to Sunday’s deadly plane crash in South Korea, which claimed the lives of 179 of the 181 people on board.
Potential contributory causes include a bird strike, landing gear malfunction, a concrete structure near the runway, and pilot error.
Jeju Air flight 7C2216, arriving at Muan International Airport from the Thai capital Bangkok, attempted to land shortly after 9 a.m. on Sunday. As the pilots made a scheduled approach, they informed air traffic control that the aircraft had suffered a bird strike. The pilots then issued a Mayday warning, signaling their intention to abort the landing and attempt to go around.
Shortly after, the aircraft made a belly landing, touching down approximately 1,200 meters along the 2,800-meter runway at Muan International Airport. It then skidded off the runway, crashing into the embankment at the end of the landing strip. The plane immediately erupted in a fireball upon impact. All 175 passengers and four of the six crew members died, with only two crew members being pulled out alive.
The investigating team is focusing on several possible factors. Initial reports suggest that a bird strike may have damaged critical systems during the approach. Moreover, a potential landing gear malfunction could have forced the pilots to attempt a belly landing. The presence of a concrete structure near the runway’s end is also under scrutiny, as it may have exacerbated the crash’s severity.
Authorities are also considering pilot error as a possible contributing factor. Aviation safety expert Lee Min-jun noted, “While mechanical issues might have played a role, we cannot rule out the human element until the investigation is complete.”
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the nation, with many questioning aviation safety standards and airport infrastructure. Jeju Air has expressed deep sorrow over the incident and pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
Muan International Airport, a key hub in South Jeolla Province, has suspended all flights pending safety inspections. Families of the victims have begun to arrive at the site, seeking answers and mourning their loved ones.
As South Korea grapples with one of its deadliest aviation disasters, the focus remains on uncovering the exact sequence of events that led to this heartbreaking outcome. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in preventing such tragedies in the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
