Jeju Air Crash in South Korea: Death Toll Rises to 122
The death toll from the Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea has risen to 122. The plane, returning from Bangkok, crashed during landing. Preliminary reports suggest a landing gear failure, possibly caused by a bird strike, as the cause of the accident.
Details of the Crash
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Timeline of Events:
- The plane was attempting to land at Muan International Airport after a flight from Bangkok.
- The landing gear was not deployed, causing the plane to skid along the ground, crash into a concrete wall, and explode.
- Time of the crash: 9:07 a.m. local time (5:07 a.m. Astana time).
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Passengers on Board:
- A total of 181 people, including six crew members, were on board.
- Most passengers were South Korean nationals, with two Thai citizens also among them.
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Survivors:
- Two people survived: one crew member and one passenger.
- All others are presumed dead.
Possible Causes
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Landing Gear Failure:
- Officials suspect a landing gear malfunction as the primary cause.
- A bird strike is being considered as a possible factor that damaged the mechanisms.
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Investigation Underway:
- Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact causes.
- Around 80 firefighters and rescue workers are at the crash site.
Consequences and Reactions
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Destruction:
- The plane was almost entirely destroyed by the explosion and fire.
- Rescue operations are ongoing at the crash site.
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Airline’s Apology:
- The Jeju Air CEO publicly apologized to the families of the victims and survivors.
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Video of the Crash:
- Local television broadcast footage showing the plane skidding on the ground and exploding.
Conclusion
The Jeju Air crash is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea in recent years. Investigations continue as families of the victims and survivors await answers.
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