A tragic aviation disaster struck South Korea on Sunday, December 29, 2024, when a Jeju Air passenger plane carrying 181 people burst into flames after skidding off the runway at Muan International Airport. At least 120 people have been confirmed dead, making it one of the deadliest aviation accidents in the country’s history.
Crash Details
The National Fire Agency reported that the plane collided with a concrete fence on the airport’s outskirts after its front landing gear apparently failed to deploy. The incident occurred at 9:03 a.m. local time, as the plane, returning from Bangkok, attempted to land. Footage aired by YTN television revealed the plane skidding across the airstrip with its landing gear still retracted before slamming into the fence and erupting into flames.
Rescue and Emergency Response
Emergency workers managed to pull two survivors—one passenger and one crew member—from the wreckage. A massive rescue operation is underway, involving 32 fire trucks and several helicopters. The fire has largely been contained, but officials continue to search for more survivors amid the debris.
Victims and Investigation
Among the passengers were two Thai nationals, and officials are working to identify all victims. The Transport Ministry has confirmed that the landing gear malfunction is a likely cause of the crash.
Historical Context
This tragedy marks South Korea’s worst aviation disaster since 1997, when a Korean Air flight crashed in Guam, claiming 228 lives.
Impact on Air Travel
Flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended as investigations continue. The airport is located 290 kilometers (180 miles) south of Seoul and is a key travel hub for domestic and international flights.
Follow this space for updates as more details emerge about the ongoing rescue and investigation efforts.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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