South Korea to Remove Concrete Embankment at Muan Airport After Crash Killing 179, Reforms at 7 Airports

Jan 22, 2025, 08:08 AM

South Korea's transport ministry has announced plans to remove a concrete embankment at Muan International Airport, following last month's Jeju Air crash, the country's deadliest domestic air disaster. The crash, which occurred on December 29, resulted in the deaths of 179 people, with only two crew members surviving. The concrete structure, which supported navigation antennas at the end of the runway, is believed to have contributed to the severity of the disaster. In response, the ministry will implement reforms at seven airports, including Muan and Jeju International Airport, by either installing new foundations for similar antennas below ground level or making them easy to break. Additionally, the ministry aims to ensure a 240-meter runway safety area at all airports to comply with safety regulations. Separately, Son Chang-wan, the former president of Korea Airports Corporation who oversaw the renovation of the structure at Muan airport, was found dead at his home on January 21, in what appears to be a suicide.