A tragic aviation disaster unfolded early Sunday morning at Muan International Airport in Muan County, South Korea, when a Jeju Air flight from Bangkok crash-landed and exploded after skidding off the runway.
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members. Local officials have confirmed that only two people—a pilot and a flight attendant—have been rescued from the wreckage, with rescuers warning that the likelihood of finding additional survivors is slim.
The crash, which left the aircraft engulfed in flames, is suspected to have been caused by a landing gear malfunction. Jeju Air officials and aviation experts are investigating the exact cause.
“All aboard were South Korean nationals except for two Thai passengers,” authorities said. Of the 181 individuals on board, 96 fatalities have been officially confirmed, with the remaining passengers presumed dead.
Jeju Air has expressed its deep regret over the tragedy. “We are making every effort to determine the exact cause and details of the incident. Our sincerest apologies go out to all those affected by this accident,” the airline said in a public statement.
Boeing, the manufacturer of the aircraft, also extended its condolences, stating: “We are in contact with Jeju Air and stand ready to support them. Our thoughts remain with the passengers, crew, and their families.”
This disaster is a grim reminder of past aviation tragedies, with Boeing’s recent history under scrutiny following earlier incidents involving its 737 Max line.
Emergency crews continue to work at the crash site while the nation mourns one of its worst aviation disasters in recent memory.