South Korean authorities have launched an intensive investigation into the Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 crash, which claimed 179 lives on December 17, 2023. Police conducted raids at Jeju Air’s headquarters, Muan International Airport’s operator, and the transportation ministry’s aviation division to gather evidence related to the tragedy.
The ill-fated flight departed Bangkok, Thailand, for Muan, South Korea, but ended in disaster. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft belly-landed, overshot the runway, and struck a nearby embankment, resulting in an explosion. Rescuers pulled two crew members from the tail section alive. One remains in critical condition, while the other is recovering from injuries, according to a transport ministry official.
In a report from Reuters, Deputy Transport Minister Joo Jong-wan announced on December 21, 2023, that data from the aircraft’s cockpit voice recorder had been successfully converted to audio files. These recordings are expected to provide important insights into the final moments of the Jeju Air crash investigation.
Investigative Actions
Authorities have focused on collecting documents and materials related to the operation and maintenance of the aircraft and airport facilities. Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae and another senior official have been barred from leaving the country. Both are considered key witnesses and could face charges of negligence resulting in death, a crime punishable by up to five years in prison or a fine of 20 million won ($13,600). Jeju Air has expressed its full cooperation with the investigation.
Air safety experts have raised questions about the embankment that the aircraft hit during its failed landing. Designed to support a “localizer” antenna used for landings, the rigid concrete structure was deemed too close to the runway. Najmedin Meshkati, a University of Southern California engineering professor, criticized the choice of material, suggesting that a standard metal tower would have been safer. The Jeju Air crash investigation has brought these design flaws into sharp focus.
Joo stated that the transport ministry is evaluating similar navigation systems at airports across South Korea to address potential safety risks.
International and Government Efforts
The investigation includes collaboration with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and Boeing. Flight data from the damaged recorder has been sent to the United States for further analysis. Authorities are also examining why the aircraft did not deploy its landing gear and what prompted the pilot to make a second landing attempt after reporting a bird strike and declaring an emergency. Such collaboration will strengthen the Jeju Air investigation.
Joo explained that the cockpit audio recordings would not be released to the public at this time to preserve the integrity of the investigation.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered a thorough inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating in South Korea. He emphasized the need for stringent checks on operations, maintenance, and training to ensure safety. Choi also called for compassion in supporting victims’ families and directed law enforcement to address the spread of malicious rumors and misinformation about the crash on social media.
As the investigation continues, authorities aim to determine the exact causes of the tragedy and implement measures to prevent future accidents. Findings from the Jeju Air crash investigation will be critical in this endeavor.
