Landing Gear Malfunction Causes Devastating Crash
A passenger jet crash-landed at an airport in southwestern South Korea on Sunday, killing at least 62 people and leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The disaster struck Jeju Air flight 7C 2216, which was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members from Bangkok.
Dramatic Footage Captures Crash
Videos of the crash broadcast by multiple South Korean news outlets show the plane sliding on its belly at high speed, careening off the edge of the runway, and hitting an earthen embankment before erupting into flames. The footage reveals that neither the back nor front landing gear was visible as smoke poured from the back of the sliding aircraft.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Two people were rescued from the crash site, but the situation was dire. Firefighters battled to extinguish the blaze using water cannons, and several parts of the aircraft were strewn across the runway. The victims included 25 males and 37 females, according to the South Jeolla Fire Service.
Investigation Launched
Officers from the South Korea’s Incident Investigation Committee arrived on site to investigate the cause of the accident. The airplane had been “almost completely destroyed” by fire, according to a fire department official. Two Thai nationals were among those on board.
Response and Reaction
South Korea’s acting president, Choi Sang-mok, has instructed emergency responders to mobilize “all available” equipment and personnel to respond to the crash. All flights to Muan International Airport have been cancelled. The tragedy comes during a time of political chaos in South Korea, with Choi stepping in as acting president just two days prior.