Seoul: South Korea is grappling with a devastating aviation disaster after Jeju Air flight 7C2216 crashed at Muan International Airport on Sunday, leaving at least 62 people dead. The aircraft, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand, veered off the runway, slammed into a wall, and erupted into flames, according to Yonhap news agency.
Details of the Crash
The crash occurred shortly after 9 a.m. local time (0000 GMT), as the Boeing 737-800 jet attempted to land. Video footage shared by local media captured the plane skidding down the runway without landing gear before a fiery explosion sent debris scattering across the airport.
Emergency responders confirmed the recovery of at least 33 bodies, though officials cautioned that the final toll could rise as rescue operations continue. Two crew members have been rescued alive, while reports from Yonhap suggest a third survivor may have been found.
Rescue Operations Underway
Authorities are focusing efforts on the tail section of the aircraft, where survivors are believed to be trapped. Photos from the crash site reveal extensive damage, with smoke and fire engulfing large parts of the wreckage.
“We are doing everything we can to rescue the remaining passengers,” said a Muan fire official.
The passengers reportedly included two Thai nationals, while the rest are believed to be South Korean, according to the transport ministry.
Flight Cancellations and Official Response
All domestic and international flights at Muan International Airport have been canceled as authorities prioritize rescue and recovery operations.
South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok, ordered an “all-out rescue effort” and convened an emergency meeting with his chief of staff. Choi, who assumed interim leadership following a political crisis, expressed condolences to the victims’ families and vowed a thorough investigation into the tragedy.
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Investigation and Global Reactions
The Boeing 737-800 jet was operated by Jeju Air. Both Boeing and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration have yet to issue statements regarding the incident.
This crash marks one of South Korea’s deadliest aviation accidents in recent history, raising questions about airline safety and operational procedures.
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Casualty and Survivor Updates
While the National Fire Agency has confirmed 62 fatalities, ongoing rescue efforts provide hope for additional survivors. Authorities are expected to release updated figures as recovery operations progress.
