The tragic crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216 at Muan International Airport on December 29 has left South Korea and the world in mourning. With 179 lives lost and only two survivors, authorities are working tirelessly to piece together the final moments leading up to the disaster. This article explores the timeline of events and the immediate response from aviation authorities.

Unraveling the Final Minutes

The investigation into the last minutes of flight 7C2216 has revealed a series of critical decisions made by the pilots and air traffic control. The aircraft, en route from Bangkok, encountered difficulties during its approach to Muan International Airport. Understanding these moments is crucial for uncovering the cause of the tragedy.

At approximately 8:57 a.m., air traffic controllers warned the incoming flight about bird activity near the runway. Two minutes later, the pilots declared an emergency due to a suspected bird strike. They requested a go-around and sought authorization to land on a different runway. Despite this precautionary measure, the plane veered off the runway shortly after landing, collided with a concrete fence, and burst into flames at 9:03 a.m. Rescue efforts began immediately, with the first survivor being rescued at 9:23 a.m., followed by another survivor 27 minutes later. The partially damaged black box has been recovered but may take time to analyze fully.

Impact and Response

The aftermath of the crash has prompted immediate action from both the airline and government officials. Authorities have announced safety inspections for all Boeing 737-800 aircraft operated by South Korean airlines. This proactive step aims to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of future flights.

In the wake of this tragedy, families were seen grieving as they received news of their loved ones. One heartbreaking story involves Maeng Gi-su, whose nephew and two young grandsons perished in the crash. The acting South Korean President Choi Sang-mok emphasized the need for systemic changes in aviation safety protocols to prevent such disasters. Boeing also extended condolences and offered support to Jeju Air. The victims ranged in age from 3 to 78, highlighting the widespread impact of this incident. While the official cause remains under investigation, theories suggest that a combination of bird strikes and inclement weather may have played a role. The nation now looks forward to the results of the ongoing inquiry and hopes for measures that will enhance aviation safety.