A devastating crash involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 occurred at Muan International Airport, leaving at least 85 people dead. The aircraft, en route from Bangkok, Thailand, was attempting to land when it skidded off the runway, colliding with a wall and bursting into flames.
The plane was carrying 181 individuals, including 175 passengers and six crew members. A chilling video captured the final moments as the aircraft attempted a belly landing, with its landing gear not fully deployed, seconds before the tragic impact.
Emergency crews, including 32 fire trucks and dozens of firefighters, quickly arrived at the scene. Rescue operations are ongoing, with efforts focused on evacuating survivors from the rear of the aircraft, where some passengers are reportedly trapped.
Initial Findings and Emergency Response
Preliminary reports suggest that a bird strike may have caused a malfunction in the landing gear, making a safe landing impossible. The exact sequence of events remains under investigation.
South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-Mok, has called for an “all-out effort” to rescue survivors and ensure medical care for the injured. He emphasized the need for thorough investigations to prevent future tragedies.
Witness Accounts and Survivor Updates
Passengers who managed to escape described the harrowing scene, with thick black smoke filling the cabin and intense flames engulfing the aircraft within seconds of the crash.
The death toll may rise as authorities continue to search the wreckage. Of the 181 onboard, 179 have been accounted for, though many are in critical condition.
A Nation in Mourning
This tragic accident has sent shockwaves across South Korea and beyond. Flags are flying at half-mast as the nation awaits further updates.
Authorities promise comprehensive investigations and extended support for victims’ families. This is a developing story; updates will follow as more information becomes available.
