South Korean investigators have successfully retrieved data from the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 that crashed at Muan International Airport on December 29, 2024, resulting in 179 fatalities. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport announced that the CVR data will be converted into an audio file for detailed analysis.
Flight Data Recorder to Undergo Analysis in the U.S.
The flight data recorder (FDR), which sustained damage during the crash, is missing a crucial connector that links its data storage unit to the power supply. Due to the extent of the damage, South Korean authorities have deemed it unfeasible to decode the FDR locally. Consequently, the device will be sent to the United States for comprehensive analysis, with South Korean experts participating in the process.
Investigation Progress and International Collaboration
The extraction of data from the CVR marks a significant advancement in the investigation, as it is expected to provide insights into the final communications and cockpit environment leading up to the crash. The analysis of both black boxes is anticipated to take several months. Investigators from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Boeing have joined South Korean officials on-site to assist in determining the cause of the accident.
Ongoing Safety Measures
In response to the tragedy, the South Korean Ministry of Transport has extended special inspections of all 101 Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by domestic airlines until January 10, 2025. These inspections aim to verify maintenance records and the condition of spare parts to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Conclusion
The successful extraction of data from the cockpit voice recorder represents a crucial step toward understanding the factors that led to the Jeju Air crash. As the investigation proceeds, the collaboration between South Korean authorities and international experts underscores the commitment to uncovering the truth and enhancing aviation safety standards.
Also learn about South Korean Plane Crash: Pre-Flight Checks Revealed ‘No Issues’.
