After 179 die at Muan airport, a team of US investigators will join local authorities to look at possible causes of the flight 2216 accident
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| South Korea's Airline Safety Measures Tightened After Deadly Crash |
South Korea's Acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered an emergency safety inspection of the country's entire airline operation system following a devastating crash that occurred on Sunday. This crash, the deadliest domestic civil aviation disaster in South Korea's history, has prompted the government to review safety protocols, including plans for a "special inspection" of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating in the country.
National Mourning and Memorials
In response to the tragedy, South Korea has entered a seven-day national mourning period. Flags are flying at half-mast, and memorial altars are being set up nationwide to honor the victims. Acting President Choi flew to the crash site in Muan, located in southwestern South Korea, for a memorial service. The country is mourning the loss of 141 lives, with the victims' families camping out at the airport in special tents while DNA analysis and fingerprint collection continue to identify those lost.
Investigation Underway
Authorities, including teams from both South Korea and the United States, are conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. Initial reports suggested a bird strike could have been the reason for the disaster, as the control tower had issued a warning of a bird strike minutes before the crash occurred. However, there are still questions about the exact cause of the incident. The black boxes, including the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, have been recovered and are being analyzed.
Airport Construction Under Scrutiny
As investigations continue, experts are raising concerns about the design of the airport where the crash took place. Footage of the crash shows the aircraft making an emergency landing, but it hit a solid wall at the end of the runway. Professor Kim Kwang-il, an aeronautical science expert and former pilot, criticized the construction of the solid structure at the end of the airfield. According to him, international aviation safety standards dictate that no such obstruction should be present in this area.
Professor Kim argued that a solid structure like this could have caused the plane to crash and catch fire. Typically, airports are designed with soft barriers like fences, which would allow the aircraft to skid further and come to a natural stop. He expressed deep regret over the unnecessary structure, which he believes played a significant role in the tragedy.
Global Condolences
Messages of sympathy have poured in from around the world, with leaders offering their condolences and support. US President Joe Biden extended an offer for "any necessary assistance," while Chinese President Xi Jinping and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also expressed their condolences. Pope Francis joined in prayer for the victims and survivors during a service at the Vatican.
Jeju Airlines Incident Raises Concerns
In another related incident, a Jeju Airlines flight using a Boeing 737-800 experienced a malfunction shortly after takeoff, prompting the aircraft to return to Seoul's Gimpo airport. The malfunction was linked to an issue with the landing gear. A Jeju Air representative confirmed awareness of the incident and stated that they are investigating the cause.
As South Korea continues to grieve, the investigation into the crash and its causes remains ongoing, with authorities working to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of air travel in the country.