Korean Aviation Authorities Warn of Potential Flight Grounding Amid Investigation into Jeju Air Crash
Kim Jisun
stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr | 2025-01-03 03:12:16
Photo = Yonhap news
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] In connection with the tragic crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216 at Muan International Airport in Jeollanam-do, aviation authorities have warned that they could ground aircraft models with serious safety issues during special inspections.
Yoo Kyung-soo, the Director-General of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's Aviation Safety Policy Bureau, stated during a briefing on the morning of January 2 at the Sejong Government Complex: "We are reviewing additional safety measures for all airlines operating Boeing 737-800 aircraft, including several important safety checks. If any critical issues are found, aviation safety inspectors have the authority to impose emergency flight suspensions or other sanctions."
The Boeing 737-800 model, primarily used by domestic low-cost carriers (LCCs), is operated by Jeju Air (39 aircraft), T'way Air (27), Jin Air (19), Eastar Jet (10), Air Incheon (4), and Korean Air (2), totaling 101 aircraft in operation.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has conducted special safety inspections from December 30 to January 3 on six of these airlines, focusing on engine maintenance, landing gear, and other key systems, as well as operational and maintenance record checks.
In addition, an explanation was provided regarding the localizer (a navigational aid) structure that the accident aircraft collided with.
Jo Jung-wan, the Director of the Aviation Policy Office at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, explained, "There are about 10 concrete support columns inside the mound, which serve as structural supports."
[ⓒ AlphaBIZ. 무단전재-재배포 금지]