By: Chioma Madonna Mdukwu
Disaster unfolded on December 29, 2024, when Jeju Air Flight 181, a Boeing 737-800, crashed shortly after its departure from Muan International Airport in South Korea. The flight, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, plummeted at 9:07 AM local time, leaving the nation in shock.
As of the latest reports from South Korea’s National Fire Agency, only two people survived, while the other 179 individuals onboard are presumed dead. The Boeing 737-800, which had been in service since 2009, was relatively young, with a seating capacity of 189 passengers.
Initial investigations point to a malfunction with the aircraft’s landing gear, though the exact cause is still under scrutiny. This tragic event has shaken the country, and authorities are working tirelessly to uncover more details about what led to this devastating loss of life.
In my opinion, this incident is a tragic reminder of how quickly an aviation disaster can unfold. While technological advances have made flying safer over the years, this crash underscores the vulnerability even modern aircraft can face. It’s crucial that the investigation into the malfunction be thorough, to prevent future disasters.
