Announcement from South Korea's Transport Ministry

South Korea Lifts Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 Wreckage at Muan Airport After Crash Kills 179

Jan 3, 2025, 11:00 AM

South Korean investigators have begun the process of lifting the wreckage of Jeju Air flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800 that crashed on landing at Muan International Airport last weekend, resulting in the deaths of 179 out of 181 passengers and crew. The crash occurred last weekend, and the investigation into the cause continues, with possible factors including a bird strike, faulty landing gear, or a barrier at the end of the runway. The lifting of the wreckage, which started on Friday, involves the use of cranes to move sections of the plane, including the tail section, where more human remains are expected to be found. The investigation has been extended by a week, with GE Aerospace joining the probe to examine the engines of the aircraft. South Korea's Transport Ministry has announced plans to inspect all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by its carriers, focusing on the landing gear. The police have conducted raids on Jeju Air and the Muan airport operator's offices to gather evidence, including communication records between the control tower and the pilot.