Seoul, South Korea – A Jeju Air flight carrying 181 individuals crashed at Muan International Airport in South Korea, leaving at least 177 people officially confirmed dead, according to emergency officials. In an official statement, the National Fire Agency updated that “Jeju Air Disaster Death toll rises to 177 with 2 missing. More updates to follow”.

The flight, returning from Bangkok, Thailand, encountered difficulties during landing. Initial reports from emergency services and local media suggested a problem with the aircraft’s landing gear. However, the fire agency later indicated that the crash was likely caused by a combination of adverse weather conditions and a bird strike.

“The presumed cause of the accident is a bird strike coupled with unfavourable weather conditions. The precise cause will be determined after a joint investigation,” said Lee Jeong-hyun, chief of Muan Fire Station, during a press briefing.

Witness accounts and aftermath

Video footage captured the harrowing scene of the aircraft skidding along the runway with no visible landing gear before colliding with a wall and bursting into flames. Thick black smoke could be seen rising from the crash site, as broadcast on local television.

The aircraft was carrying 181 passengers, including two Thai nationals, and six crew members, according to the Transport Ministry. Firefighters deployed 32 fire engines and numerous personnel to manage the disaster.

Jeju Air’s first fatal accident

This marks the first fatal accident in the history of Jeju Air, South Korea’s low-cost carrier established in 2005.

In a statement shared on its social media channels, the airline expressed deep regret: “We at Jeju Air will do everything in our power to respond to this accident. We sincerely apologise for causing concern.”

The aircraft involved in the crash was identified by aviation tracking site FlightRadar24 as a Boeing 737-800. Boeing and the US Federal Aviation Administration have yet to comment.

Government response

South Korea’s acting president, Choi Sung-mok, who assumed office only two days ago, directed an all-out rescue effort. An emergency meeting was convened by his chief of staff to address the crisis.

The crash occurred at Muan International Airport, approximately 288 kilometres southwest of Seoul, marking a grim moment in South Korea’s aviation history.

Agencies