South Korea is taking major steps to enhance airport safety after a tragic Jeju Air crash in December that claimed the lives of 179 passengers. The aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, skidded off the runway at Muan airport, struck a structure housing landing guidance antennas, and burst into flames.
The Ministry of Transport announced plans to improve the structures that house these crucial antennas, known as “localizers,” at airports across the country. An inspection revealed that seven domestic airports, including Muan, have embankments or foundations made of concrete or steel that need to be updated to enhance safety.
“We aim to prepare measures to improve these structures by this month and complete the enhancements by the end of 2025,” the ministry stated. While specific details of the planned improvements were not provided, the move signifies a commitment to prevent such accidents in the future.
Aviation safety experts have criticized the placement of the embankment at Muan airport, suggesting it may have increased the severity of the crash. The devastating accident resulted in the loss of nearly all aboard, with only two survivors out of 181 passengers and crew.
In addition to infrastructure improvements, the government completed an inspection of six domestic airlines operating Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Violations were found at some operators, including exceeding inspection periods before and after flights and failing to follow procedures for addressing aircraft defects or passenger boarding. The ministry declined to comment on whether Jeju Air was among the airlines found in violation.
A special safety inspection of the country’s major airport facilities is scheduled between January 13 and 21. Moreover, the government has extended the shutdown of Muan airport to January 19 to facilitate these inspections and necessary upgrades.
The tragic incident has sparked a nationwide call for improved aviation safety, with authorities and airlines working together to ensure the well-being of all passengers.
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South Korea plans to overhaul airport structures after Jeju Air crash
cgtn.com
