On December 29, 2024, a tragic accident occurred when a Jeju Air passenger plane returning from Thailand crashed while attempting to land at Muan International Airport. All 175 passengers on board tragically lost their lives, leaving those who had been planning overseas trips for the holidays in shock.
The fire department and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport initially stated that the accident appeared to have been caused by a ‘bird strike,’ in which a bird collided with the aircraft during flight. As a result, the plane attempted an emergency landing, but the landing gear failed to deploy for unknown reasons, leading to the crash. However, some experts argue that it is too early to conclude the exact cause, while others believe a concrete embankment at the airport may have contributed to the accident’s severity.
The causes of airplane accidents can be categorized into several types, with aircraft defects and engine malfunctions being the most common. These may include design flaws. Another major cause is pilot error or air traffic control mistakes. Additionally, natural factors such as adverse weather conditions and natural disasters can create hazards like turbulence, affecting the aircraft and its operation.
There have also been recent international aviation accidents. On January 31 this year, a Learjet 55 took off and suddenly disappeared from radar after a rapid ascent before crashing near a shopping mall in northeastern Philadelphia. Another tragic accident involved American Eagle Flight 5342, which collided mid-air with a U.S. Army UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter while approaching Runway 33 at Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington D.C. Both aircraft crashed into the Potomac River, resulting in the deaths of all passengers and crew on board.
Concerns are growing as airplane accident rates rise, prompting the aviation industry and governments to act. Governments have imposed stricter regulations and oversight. Airlines provide passengers with more safety information and continuously improve safety systems.
This incident highlights the need for a global reassessment of airplane safety. We must prioritize technological improvements, stricter regulations, and faster response systems to prevent future accidents. Moving forward, we must learn from past mistakes and continue to improve aviation safety.
