Preliminary Findings
Investigators have discovered bird feathers and bloodstains in both engines of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 that crashed on December 29, 2024, at Muan International Airport in South Korea. DNA analysis identified the remains as belonging to Baikal teals, a species of migratory duck common in the region.
Incident Overview
The aircraft, operating as Flight 2216 from Bangkok to Muan, attempted an emergency landing after the pilots reported a bird strike and declared a mayday. The plane belly-landed, overshot the runway, and collided with a concrete embankment, resulting in a fire that led to the deaths of 179 of the 181 people on board. Only two crew members survived.
Investigation Challenges
The investigation faces challenges due to the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder ceasing to function four minutes before the crash, leaving a critical gap in data. Authorities are conducting a thorough examination of the engines and other components to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Infrastructure Concerns
The crash has raised concerns about airport infrastructure, particularly the presence of rigid concrete structures near runways. The aircraft collided with an embankment housing navigation equipment, which contributed to the severity of the crash. In response, South Korea’s Transport Ministry plans to replace such structures with breakable alternatives to enhance safety.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities collaborating with international bodies, including the United States and Thailand, to analyze all aspects of the crash. A final report is expected within a year, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors leading to this tragic incident.
