South Korea's Deadliest Plane Crash Kills 179 People

On Sunday, a Jeju Air flight crashed at Muan International Airport, killing 179 people, making it South Korea’s deadliest air accident and the worst involving a South Korean airline in nearly three decades, according to Reuters.

The Boeing 737-800, arriving from Bangkok, attempted to land without visible landing gear, skidded off the runway, and crashed into navigation equipment and a wall before exploding.

Only two crew members out of the six onboard survived and were rescued from the tail section of the burning plane. They were said to be being treated at hospitals for their injuries, per the head of a local public health center.

Officials said that many of the victims were residents of nearby areas coming back from vacation. Two Thai women were on the plane, per government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub.

Muan fire chief Lee Jung-hyun said in a press briefing that investigators are examining potential factors of the crash, including bird strikes and weather conditions.

Reuters notes that this crash was the worst for any South Korean airline since 2002’s Air China crash that killed 129 and the 1997 Korean Air crash in Guam that claimed more than 200 lives.

During a televised briefing, Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae apologized for the accident and said the aircraft showed no prior issues nor early signs of malfunction. The CEO also said they will cooperate with investigators and provide support to the bereaved.

Interim President Choi Sang-mok pledged full governmental support, while Boeing and CFM International, the aircraft and engine manufacturers, expressed condolences.

Flights at Muan Airport were suspended following the crash.