South Korea Finds Pilot Error Behind Jeju Air Crash That Killed 179

TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

South Korean investigators have revealed new findings in the tragic Jeju Air crash on December 29, 2023, which claimed the lives of 179 people. The probe shows clear evidence that the pilots accidentally shut down the working left engine after a bird strike, instead of the more seriously damaged right engine.

The Boeing 737-800, operating Flight 2216, was attempting an emergency landing at Muan Airport when the accident happened. The plane overran the runway, landed hard on its belly, and crashed into a concrete embankment. Out of 181 passengers and crew, only two survived.

Investigators examined cockpit voice recordings, flight data, and wreckage, finding that emergency procedures were not correctly followed. No prior engine faults were detected. Duck remains were discovered in both engines, confirming the bird strike as the cause of engine trouble.

Jeju Air is fully cooperating with the investigation, while Boeing and CFM, the engine manufacturer, have not commented. The final report is expected by June 2026.

Families of the victims, still grieving, are demanding answers. They want to understand how such a fatal mistake could happen and if there are bigger safety issues that need addressing.