Jeju Air Crash at Muan Airport Claims at Least 176 Lives

In a tragic incident, at least 176 people lost their lives when a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed at South Korea's Muan International Airport on Sunday.

The aircraft, arriving from Bangkok with 175 passengers and six crew members, belly-landed shortly after 9:00 a.m., skidding off the runway before erupting into flames. Only two crew members survived, both suffering severe injuries, according to local authorities.

The crash marks the deadliest aviation disaster on South Korean soil and the worst involving a South Korean airline in nearly three decades. Video footage showed the plane engulfed in flames and debris after slamming into a wall, while photos captured smoke and fire consuming most of the wreckage.

Investigations Underway

Authorities are probing a possible bird strike and adverse weather conditions as contributing factors. The transport ministry revealed that a bird strike warning had been issued moments before the plane’s landing gear malfunctioned. The pilots declared mayday shortly before the crash.

Passengers reportedly texted loved ones before the accident, with one chilling message reading, "Should I say my last words?"

A Heartbreaking Aftermath

Distraught families gathered at Muan Airport, where Red Cross volunteers provided support. Emotions ran high as victims were identified, and a temporary morgue was set up to accommodate the overwhelming loss.

Search teams in protective gear scoured the crash site, which bore the harrowing stench of aviation fuel and blood. Rescue efforts transitioned to recovery operations, with authorities combing nearby areas for victims thrown from the aircraft due to the force of the impact.

Airline and Government Response

Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae issued an apology, emphasizing the airline's commitment to supporting affected families. The Boeing 737-800, manufactured in 2009, had no prior accident history.

Boeing extended condolences and pledged to assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok visited the crash site, stating that all government resources were being deployed to manage the disaster.

Muan Airport Operations Halted

All flights at Muan International Airport have been canceled as investigators piece together the events leading to the tragedy. The airport, one of South Korea’s smallest, has seen a surge in international passengers this year, making the crash a devastating blow to its burgeoning operations.

This incident follows the launch of Jeju Air’s Muan-to-Bangkok route just three weeks prior, casting a shadow over the airline's expansion efforts.

As the investigation continues, the nation mourns a tragedy that will leave an indelible mark on South Korea’s aviation history.

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