Families of the victims from the Jeju Air Flight 2216 crash challenge a report attributing the catastrophe primarily to pilot error, highlighting the significance of a concrete barrier that exacerbated the tragedy.
Families of Jeju Air Crash Victims Challenge Pilot Blame in Investigation Findings
Families of Jeju Air Crash Victims Challenge Pilot Blame in Investigation Findings
A recent investigation into South Korea's deadliest air disaster has shifted blame to pilot error, but victims' families demand accountability for structural flaws.
The aftermath of South Korea’s deadliest air disaster continues to unfold as families of the victims from Jeju Air Flight 2216 contest the findings of an investigation that primarily faults pilot error. The crash, which occurred in December while attempting to land at Muan International Airport, resulted in the loss of 179 lives out of the 181 onboard, after a bird strike compromised one of the engines and led to a cataclysmic landing.
Local media reports indicate that pilots mistakenly shut down the left engine — unaffected by the bird strike — rather than the right engine, which was severely damaged. The disastrous event unfolded as the flight prepared for landing; upon encountering difficulties, the pilots declared a mayday and attempted a belly landing without landing gear, which inevitably sent the aircraft skidding into a concrete barrier.
Families of the deceased have expressed deep frustration with the investigation's focus. They argue that the report neglects to acknowledge how the concrete barrier at the runway’s end played a crucial role in the accident's severity. In a collective statement, the bereaved families have called for a more transparent examination, criticizing investigators for placing undue responsibility on the pilots while overlooking other significant factors contributing to the tragedy.
In light of these developments, the Jeju Air pilots' union has also voiced discontent with the investigation’s characterization, asserting that it unfairly emphasizes pilot mistakes over a broader analysis of factors leading to the crash. This discontent is amplified by the fact that the investigation had to be delayed due to victim families' protests, signaling a deep yearning for justice and accountability.
Amid rising calls for thorough accountability, the South Korean transport ministry announced plans to eliminate concrete barriers at seven airports, an acknowledgment of safety shortcomings highlighted by this incident. A criminal complaint against Jeju Air's chief executive and 23 others is also under investigation, further complicating the narrative surrounding this tragic event. As discussions continue, the families await a comprehensive review that considers all dimensions of the incident, hoping to find closure and ensure future air travel safety.
Local media reports indicate that pilots mistakenly shut down the left engine — unaffected by the bird strike — rather than the right engine, which was severely damaged. The disastrous event unfolded as the flight prepared for landing; upon encountering difficulties, the pilots declared a mayday and attempted a belly landing without landing gear, which inevitably sent the aircraft skidding into a concrete barrier.
Families of the deceased have expressed deep frustration with the investigation's focus. They argue that the report neglects to acknowledge how the concrete barrier at the runway’s end played a crucial role in the accident's severity. In a collective statement, the bereaved families have called for a more transparent examination, criticizing investigators for placing undue responsibility on the pilots while overlooking other significant factors contributing to the tragedy.
In light of these developments, the Jeju Air pilots' union has also voiced discontent with the investigation’s characterization, asserting that it unfairly emphasizes pilot mistakes over a broader analysis of factors leading to the crash. This discontent is amplified by the fact that the investigation had to be delayed due to victim families' protests, signaling a deep yearning for justice and accountability.
Amid rising calls for thorough accountability, the South Korean transport ministry announced plans to eliminate concrete barriers at seven airports, an acknowledgment of safety shortcomings highlighted by this incident. A criminal complaint against Jeju Air's chief executive and 23 others is also under investigation, further complicating the narrative surrounding this tragic event. As discussions continue, the families await a comprehensive review that considers all dimensions of the incident, hoping to find closure and ensure future air travel safety.
