South Korea Investigates Jeju Air Crash That Killed 179
Authorities probe bird strike, faulty landing gear, and runway barrier as key factors in the December 29 disaster.
- The Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed at Muan International Airport on December 29, killing 179 of the 181 people onboard.
- Investigators confirmed feathers were found in one engine and video evidence suggests a bird strike occurred before the crash.
- The plane failed to deploy its landing gear and collided with a rigid concrete wall near the runway, exacerbating the impact.
- South Korea’s transport minister, Park Sang-woo, has offered to resign, citing responsibility for the tragedy and pledging safety improvements.
- A joint parliamentary task force has been formed to investigate the crash and address safety concerns, while Jeju Air has reduced flight operations to enhance safety.