South korea plane crash death toll rises above 120 family cry in pain grieve the loss

On December 29, 2024, a devastating aviation tragedy unfolded in South Korea when Jeju Air Flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800, crashed during its landing attempt at Muan International Airport. The flight, originating from Bangkok, Thailand, was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, totaling 181 individuals on board. Tragically, at least 177 people lost their lives, with only two crew members surviving the ordeal.

The Times The Tragic Incident

The aircraft encountered severe difficulties during its approach to Muan International Airport. Reports indicate that the plane's landing gear failed to deploy, leading to a belly landing. Without the support of the landing gear, the aircraft skidded off the runway, collided with a concrete wall, and erupted into flames. Emergency responders, including firefighters and medical personnel, were promptly dispatched to the scene. Despite their swift efforts, the fire consumed the aircraft, resulting in a high fatality rate. 

The Times Investigation and Potential Causes

Initial investigations suggest that a bird strike may have caused the landing gear failure. Approximately six minutes before the crash, air traffic control issued a warning about a potential bird strike. Shortly after, the pilot declared a Mayday signal, indicating a critical situation. However, the weather conditions at the time were favorable, with clear skies and minimal wind, making adverse weather an unlikely factor. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. 

Wikipedia Impact on Families and the Nation

The loss of over 170 lives has left families and communities in profound grief. Many passengers were South Korean nationals returning from a holiday in Thailand, making the tragedy particularly poignant. In response, the South Korean government has declared a seven-day national mourning period to honor the victims. Support services have been established to assist the bereaved families, including temporary accommodations and counseling. 

The Times Global Reactions

The international community has expressed deep condolences. Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft, has extended its sympathies and pledged full cooperation with the investigation. Jeju Air's president has publicly apologized and accepted full responsibility for the incident, vowing to support the victims' families and work towards preventing future tragedies.

Conclusion

This tragic event underscores the critical importance of aviation safety and the need for rigorous maintenance and operational protocols. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the exact cause of the crash to prevent similar incidents in the future. In the meantime, the world stands in solidarity with the victims' families, offering support and condolences during this unimaginably difficult time.

For a visual report on the incident, you may find the following video informative