SEOUL: South Korea will publish a preliminary report by Monday on the Jeju Air plane crash that killed 179. The crash occurred on December 29 when flight 7C2216, traveling from Bangkok, crashed at Muan International Airport. The Ministry of Transport confirmed the report will include details of the investigation into the cause of the deadly disaster.
One key area under investigation is a bird strike’s possible role in the crash. The Ministry of Transport mentioned that bird strike was discussed between the pilots and the control tower. Video footage from the airport security cameras showed the plane making contact with birds as it attempted a go-around.
Investigation Details and Collaborations with International Agencies
The preliminary report will be sent to international aviation bodies such as the ICAO, and the transport ministries of the U.S., France, and Thailand. South Korea is cooperating with investigation teams from the National Transportation Safety Board of the U.S. and the French Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety. The detailed findings of flight data and cockpit voice recordings will take months to analyze fully.
The cockpit voice recorder stopped working four minutes before the crash, making it difficult to understand the final moments. Communications between the pilots and the control tower during the final minutes of the flight are being reviewed carefully.
Bird Strike and Plane’s Final Moments
At 08:58:11, the pilots discussed birds under the Boeing 737-800 as they approached the airport. About 45 seconds later, at 08:58:56, they declared a mayday, citing bird strikes during a go-around. CCTV footage from the airport also supports the claim, showing the plane making contact with birds while attempting the maneuver.
Sadly, the plane crashed at 09:02:57, striking a concrete embankment before bursting into flames. The crash killed everyone on board, except two crew members who survived in the tail section.
Further Analysis of Structural Role in the Crash
The transport ministry is also investigating the role of the concrete embankment that contributed to the disaster’s severity. The embankment, supporting antennas, may have worsened the impact, as experts claim. On Wednesday, the ministry announced plans to remove similar structures in the future to prevent further risks.
Though analysis continues, South Korea’s focus remains on providing a complete picture of the crash’s cause. The role of bird strikes, the embankment, and other factors will soon come to light as investigations progress.
