Seoul’s ongoing investigation into the tragic Jeju Air crash, which occurred on 29 December 2023, is shedding light on critical factors surrounding the disaster. A preliminary report has been submitted to the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and other relevant authorities, offering insights into the deadliest plane accident in South Korean history.
Key Findings of the Preliminary Report
- The Boeing 737-800, arriving from Bangkok, was involved in an emergency belly landing at Muan International Airport.
- All but two of the 181 individuals on board lost their lives after the aircraft crashed into a reinforced concrete embankment supporting navigation antennas.
- Initial findings indicate a significant *bird strike* may have taken place, as feathers and blood were found in both engines.
Details from the Investigation
During the final approach, pilots reported spotting a flock of birds just before declaring a mayday, possibly linked to the unfortunate event that followed. They issued a distress signal at 08:58:56 am, just moments before the plane crashed.
Evidence from airport CCTV footage confirmed the plane’s contact with birds during the approach, even though the timing of these encounters remains uncertain. The cockpit voice recordings ceased just over four minutes before the plane hit the ground.
Future Steps and Changes
As investigations continue, South Korean authorities are collaborating with international bodies, including the US National Transportation Safety Board and France’s Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety. The ministry has also announced plans to remove the problematic concrete embankment, believed to have contributed to the severity of the crash.
The ICAO requires that a final report be made public within a year of the accident, but initial analyses of flight data and recordings will take additional months. Families of the victims are being kept informed as updates emerge.
In the meantime, air safety remains a top priority, and authorities are committed to uncovering all determinants of this devastating incident.