SEOUL: Jeju Air is set to face comprehensive safety inspections after a fatal crash attributed to landing gear malfunctions claimed 179 lives, according to government officials. The crash occurred when Jeju Air flight 7C2216 veered off the runway during a belly landing at Muan International Airport, colliding with a fence.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the incident has prompted an investigation into the airline, focusing on the crash of flight 7C2216. The flight was en route to Jeju Island from Incheon when the landing gear issue led to its catastrophic failure. In a related incident, another Jeju Air flight departing from Gimpo International Airport was forced to return mid-flight due to a similar landing gear problem. Both aircraft involved were Boeing B737-800 models.
The transport ministry, represented by aviation policy chief Joo Jong-wan, announced plans for rigorous safety inspections in light of the recurring landing gear issues. Joo highlighted Jeju Air's high aircraft utilization rate as a potential contributing factor to the crash. Safety inspectors have been dispatched to Jeju Air to investigate the latest incident.
Additionally, one of the two flight recording devices recovered from the crash site showed external damage. The device has been sent to Gimpo International Airport for further analysis. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board will also participate in the investigation, with Boeing and engine manufacturer CFM International offering their cooperation.