A devastating plane crash in South Korea has left more than 170 people feared dead after a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 aircraft crashed upon arrival at Muan International Airport on December 29, 2024. The flight, carrying 181 people from Thailand, was brought down by a combination of a bird strike and adverse weather conditions, according to authorities.
The aircraft crashed into a barrier on the runway, bursting into flames shortly after landing. Video footage showed the plane skidding across the tarmac before crashing into a wall and igniting in a violent explosion. Firefighters and rescue teams have confirmed that only two survivors, both flight attendants, were found.
By mid-afternoon, 120 bodies had been recovered, though the wreckage is so extensive that identifying the deceased has proven to be a difficult task. Local fire officials stated that the force of the crash caused passengers to be ejected from the plane, making survival almost impossible.
The pilot issued a Mayday call just minutes before the crash, and authorities believe that the bird strike, followed by the aircraft’s attempt to land in poor weather, may have led to the tragedy. Investigations are underway to confirm the exact cause of the crash.
This incident marks the first fatal accident in Jeju Air’s history. The airline, one of South Korea’s largest low-cost carriers, has expressed deep sorrow and promised to provide full assistance to the families of those affected.
