Deadliest Air Disaster in South Korea: Boeing 737-800 Crash Kills 179 at Muan Airport

A Boeing 737-800 crash at South Korea’s Muan International Airport on Sunday claimed 179 lives, marking the nation’s deadliest air disaster.

Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, en route from Bangkok, Thailand, attempted landing without deploying its gear, veered off the runway, and struck a wall, erupting into flames. The crash occurred shortly after the airport issued a bird strike warning. Authorities suspect bird strikes may have caused landing gear failure, though investigators are examining all possibilities. Flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered.

The aircraft, manufactured in 2009, was nearly destroyed. Passengers, ranging from ages 3 to 78, included two Thai nationals and mostly South Koreans. Two crew members survived, one suffering severe injuries potentially leading to paralysis.

Jeju Air, South Korea’s largest budget airline, apologized for the tragedy and pledged full support to families through a $1 billion insurance plan. Boeing also extended condolences and is assisting with investigations.

This crash is Jeju Air’s first fatal incident since its 2005 inception and South Korea’s most catastrophic aviation accident since a 2002 Air China crash in Busan killed 129 people.

Family members gathered at the airport, grieving as victims were identified. Acting President Choi Sang-mok, less than 48 hours in office, visited the site and pledged a thorough investigation. Experts say the incident raises critical questions, as bird strikes alone typically don’t lead to catastrophic outcomes.