In a tragic turn of events, the pilot of a Jeju Air jet reported a bird strike moments before the aircraft crashed on Sunday, a Transport Ministry official revealed during a media briefing on Monday.
The pilot communicated with air traffic control, declaring a mayday and informing them of the bird strike that had compromised the aircraft. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff, leaving little time for emergency protocols to be fully enacted.
“The pilot reported that the aircraft had suffered a bird strike and declared mayday shortly before the crash,” the official stated, adding that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the tragedy.
Emergency response teams were dispatched immediately, and rescue operations are ongoing. The authorities are working diligently to uncover all factors that may have contributed to the accident, including mechanical issues and procedural adherence.
Jeju Air has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, promising full cooperation with investigators and support for the affected families. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and the rigorous maintenance protocols followed for all its aircraft.
Bird strikes pose significant risks to aircraft, particularly during takeoff and landing phases. Aviation experts note that such incidents can cause substantial damage to engines and airframes, necessitating prompt actions by the flight crew to ensure safety.
The aviation community and international observers are closely monitoring the situation, awaiting further details from the investigation. This incident has reignited discussions on aviation safety measures and the challenges posed by wildlife hazards.
Reference(s):
Pilot of South Korean plane said there was a bird strike before crash
cgtn.com
