A Jeju Air flight returned safely to Gimpo Airport after experiencing landing gear issues, just a day after a tragic crash involving another Jeju Air plane at Muan International Airport.
At a Glance
- A Jeju Air flight returned to Gimpo Airport due to landing gear problems
- The incident occurred shortly after a deadly Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport
- South Korea’s acting leader ordered emergency safety inspections of all airline operations
- The previous crash killed 179 people, with only two crew members surviving
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of both incidents
Second Jeju Air Incident Raises Concerns
In a concerning turn of events, a Jeju Air flight departing from Gimpo Airport in Seoul was forced to return shortly after takeoff due to landing gear issues. The incident, which occurred just 24 hours after a devastating crash involving another Jeju Air plane, has heightened scrutiny on the airline’s safety protocols and the overall state of aviation safety in South Korea.
The safe return of the aircraft to Gimpo Airport demonstrates the effectiveness of crew training and emergency protocols. However, the timing of this incident, so soon after the tragic crash at Muan International Airport, has raised serious questions about the airline’s fleet maintenance and operational practices.
A Jeju Air passenger jet that departed Gimpo Airport in Seoul for Jeju on Monday experienced an unidentified landing-gear issue after takeoff and returned to Gimpo where it landed safely, Yonhap news reported, citing an unnamed source. https://t.co/MFUZijHGfS pic.twitter.com/kE2POv6C9p
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 30, 2024
Tragic Muan Airport Crash
The previous day’s crash at Muan International Airport resulted in the deaths of 179 people, with only two crew members surviving. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which makes up the majority of Jeju Air’s fleet, reportedly experienced issues shortly after takeoff. According to reports, the pilot made a “bird strike” warning followed by a “mayday” call before the plane skidded off the runway and crashed into a wall.
“We deeply apologize to all those affected by the incident. We will make every effort to resolve the situation,” Jeju Air executives said in a public statement following the crash.
The tragedy has been compounded by South Korea’s ongoing political turmoil, with Acting President Choi Sang-mok overseeing the response. “To the honorable citizens of our nation, as an Acting President, my heart aches as we face this unforeseen tragedy amid recent economic hardships,” Choi stated.
Investigations and Safety Measures
In response to these incidents, South Korea’s acting leader has ordered an emergency safety inspection of all airline operations. Investigators are examining multiple factors, including potential bird strikes, control system failures, and pilot actions. Two black boxes have been retrieved from the crash site and are currently being analyzed to determine the cause of the accident.
“We will examine compliance with various regulations, including operational records, inspections, and maintenance conducted before and after flights,” officials stated, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the investigation.
Experts have raised questions about the quick 28-minute safety checks performed before flights. One veteran mechanic noted, “The 28-minute maintenance time is barely enough to check for cockpit warning lights and visually inspect the exterior for obvious damage. It’s essentially a walkthrough, not a detailed inspection.”
International Response and Impact
The crash has drawn international attention and condolences from world leaders. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed that he was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy, while United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres conveyed “heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and expresses his solidarity with the people and Government of the Republic of Korea during this difficult time.”
The incidents have had a significant impact on Jeju Air, with the company’s stock falling by about 8% following the crash. As investigations continue and new safety measures are implemented, the aviation industry in South Korea faces a critical period of scrutiny and potential reform to prevent future tragedies.
