Key Highlights:
- Deadly Accident: A Jeju Air plane carrying 181 people crashed during landing at Muan International Airport, killing at least 62.
- Rescue Operations: Two survivors have been found, with emergency teams working tirelessly to locate more passengers.
- Possible Cause: Early reports suggest bird strikes may have caused the crash, though investigations are ongoing.
- Casualties Breakdown: Among the 62 deceased, 37 were women and 25 were men. Most passengers were South Koreans, with two Thai nationals onboard.
- Dramatic Footage: Eyewitness videos show the aircraft skidding off the runway, crashing into a wall, and erupting into flames.
South Korea’s Muan Airport Devastated by Fatal Plane Crash
A tragic plane crash at South Korea’s Muan International Airport has left at least 62 people dead and rescue teams scrambling to save lives. The Jeju Air flight, returning from Bangkok, Thailand, with 175 passengers and six crew members, failed to land safely, skidding off the runway and crashing into a wall.
Crash Details and Rescue Efforts
The crash occurred shortly after 9:00 AM local time (00:00 GMT) on Saturday. Upon impact, the aircraft’s tail section was heavily damaged, with some parts catching fire. Dramatic footage captured by witnesses showed thick black smoke billowing from the wreckage.
Emergency responders, including 80 firefighters and more than 30 fire trucks, rushed to the scene to battle flames and search for survivors. So far, two individuals a passenger and a flight attendant—have been rescued alive. Efforts are concentrated on the tail section, where more survivors may be trapped.
Victims and Survivors
The crash claimed 62 lives, including 37 women and 25 men, according to South Korea’s National Fire Agency. The majority of the passengers were South Korean nationals, along with two Thai citizens. The identities of the victims are being verified, and families are being informed.
Speculations on Cause
While the exact cause remains undetermined, initial reports suggest the possibility of bird strikes interfering with the plane’s systems during landing. Aviation experts have called for a thorough investigation to determine the factors leading to the disaster.
Eyewitness Accounts and Reactions
Witnesses described scenes of chaos as the plane veered off the runway, crashed into a barrier, and partially burst into flames. One bystander captured a video showing the aircraft’s fiery aftermath, which has since gone viral on social media.
Local authorities have pledged full transparency in investigating the crash. “Our priority is to rescue survivors and provide support to the victims’ families,” said a government spokesperson.
Global Outpouring of Grief
The tragedy has prompted condolences from leaders worldwide, with South Korea’s President Yoon Suk-yeol expressing deep sorrow and pledging government assistance to the victims’ families.
This devastating crash marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea’s recent history, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures in the region.
As rescue operations continue, investigators are focused on uncovering the cause of the crash. Authorities are reviewing the aircraft’s maintenance records, pilot communication logs, and weather conditions at the time of the incident.
For now, the nation mourns the loss of lives while hoping for a miracle for those still missing in the wreckage.
