A tragic plane crash involving Jeju Air flight 7C2216 has claimed the lives of 62 passengers, according to the latest updates from South Korea’s National Fire Agency. The plane, which was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, crashed into a wall after skidding off the runway at Muan International Airport early Sunday morning. The flight was returning from Thailand to South Korea when the incident occurred.
Key Developments on the Jeju Air South Korea Plane Crash
8:45 am – Death Toll Rises to 62
The confirmed fatalities have increased to 62, with several critically injured passengers still receiving medical attention. Emergency responders continue to search the wreckage for survivors.
8:16 am – Flights Canceled Across South Korea
All domestic and international flights have been suspended nationwide following the crash, as per Yonhap News Agency.
8:00 am – Death Toll Reaches 47
Earlier reports confirmed 47 deaths, with numbers rising as rescue operations continued.
7:40 am – Two Thai Nationals Aboard the Flight
South Korea’s Transport Ministry confirmed that two Thai nationals were among those on board the ill-fated flight.
7:30 am – Death Toll at 29
Initial reports indicated 29 fatalities, with local fire officials warning that the figure could increase due to critically injured passengers.
“We have so far confirmed 29 deaths from the crash… but the tally could rise due to the critically injured,” stated Lee Hyeon-ji, a fire department official.
7:17 am – Viral Video Shows Impact
A dramatic video of the crash shows the twin-engine aircraft skidding along the runway without visible landing gear before colliding with a wall. Flames and smoke engulfed parts of the plane as debris scattered across the site.
Possible Cause of the Crash
Preliminary investigations suggest the crash may have been caused by bird contact, which reportedly led to a malfunction in the landing gear during the aircraft’s approach to the runway. Officials are conducting further inquiries to confirm this theory.
Comparison to Recent Aviation Incidents
This incident follows closely on the heels of the Azerbaijan Airlines crash earlier this week, where a plane attempting to land in dense fog at Aktau, Kazakhstan, crashed after multiple failed landing attempts. That crash resulted in 38 fatalities, with 29 survivors injured.
Impact on Flight Operations and Public Reaction
The tragic incident has led to widespread cancellations of domestic and international flights, affecting thousands of passengers. The video footage and images from the scene have drawn global attention, sparking discussions on aviation safety measures at Muan International Airport and across South Korea.
The crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216 is a devastating event that highlights the importance of stringent aviation safety protocols. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the exact cause of the malfunction and providing support to the victims’ families.
