South Korea has announced comprehensive inspections of all Boeing B737-800 aircraft operated by domestic carriers following a catastrophic crash that claimed 179 lives. The devastating incident occurred when a Jeju Air passenger jet failed to deploy its landing gear at Muan International airport, resulting in one of the country’s most severe aviation disasters.
The gravity of the situation intensified when a second B737-800 aircraft, also operated by Jeju Air, was forced to return to Gimpo domestic airport due to landing gear warnings. Though subsequent checks revealed properly functioning equipment, the incident sparked immediate market reaction, with Jeju Air shares plummeting 8.7 per cent and Boeing experiencing a 4 per cent decline in pre-market trading.
Acting president Choi Sang-mok has mandated emergency safety assessments of the country’s airline operations system. The transport ministry confirmed that over 100 B737-800 aircraft currently operate in South Korea, predominantly within budget airlines’ fleets. Officials emphasised their commitment to scrutinising operating ratios and compliance with safety protocols, including pre and post-flight maintenance procedures.
Investigators have recovered the aircraft’s flight data and cockpit voice recorders, albeit with external damage. The pilot reportedly indicated a bird strike and issued a mayday call moments before the crash landing. The investigation will involve collaboration between South Korean authorities, the US National Transportation Safety Board, Boeing, and the Federation Aviation Administration.
Jeju Air’s safety record has come under intense scrutiny, with the ministry revealing nine safety violation fines since 2020—the highest among South Korean carriers. The crashed aircraft’s operational schedule, involving 13 flights across six Asian countries within 48 hours before the incident, has raised questions about aircraft utilisation practices, despite the airline’s insistence on regulatory compliance.
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