29-12-2024 (SEOUL) A Jeju Air passenger aircraft crashed at Muan International Airport today, claiming the lives of at least 177 people in a catastrophic incident that has plunged the nation into mourning.
The aircraft, operating as Flight 7C2216 from Bangkok, met with disaster whilst attempting to land at Muan Airport. According to preliminary reports from aviation authorities, the Boeing aircraft experienced complications during its final approach, ultimately veering off the runway before colliding with a perimeter wall in a devastating impact.
Of the 181 souls aboard, including passengers and crew, only four individuals initially survived the crash. However, two subsequently succumbed to their injuries at a nearby medical facility, bringing the death toll to 177.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok, addressing the nation in a sombre televised statement, declared a week-long period of national mourning. “Today marks one of the darkest days in our nation’s history,” Choi stated. “We stand united in grief with the families who have lost their precious loved ones in this terrible tragedy.”
Aviation experts suggest that a bird strike may have compromised the aircraft’s landing gear, though the Civil Aviation Safety Authority emphasises that investigations are in their early stages. “We cannot speculate about the cause until a thorough investigation has been completed,” a spokesperson said.
The incident has prompted an immediate suspension of operations at Muan Airport, with all incoming flights diverted to nearby facilities. Emergency response teams continue to work tirelessly at the crash site, where the grim task of recovery operations is ongoing.
International messages of condolence have poured in, with Chinese President Xi Jinping amongst the first world leaders to express solidarity with South Korea. Former President Yoon Suk Yeol took to social media to share his grief, calling for national unity during this period of profound loss.
