Missing Data Hinders Investigation of South Korea's Fatal Plane Crash

Horrifying details emerge as investigators look into the catastrophic crash that claimed 179 lives, with vital data from the final moments missing.

South Korean authorities are grappling with missing data from the crucial recording devices of the Jeju Air flight that tragically crashed last month, resulting in the loss of 179 lives—the deadliest air disaster in the nation's history. The country's transport ministry has disclosed that the flight data and cockpit voice recorders ceased operations just four minutes before the incident, leaving investigators at a critical standstill. Remarkably, only two cabin crew members survived the crash.

Initially examined in South Korea, the recorders were later shipped to the United States for analysis after the lack of data was discovered. Investigators are now focused on understanding the pivotal moments leading up to the disaster, which occurred on December 29 when the plane, arriving from Bangkok, made an emergency landing at Muan International Airport. The aircraft skipped a third of the runway before careening into a wall, igniting a fire.

Industry expert Sim Jai-dong commented to Reuters that the abrupt halt of data recording suggests a severe failure, potentially indicating a complete power loss, including backup systems. Numerous questions remain unresolved. Investigators are scrutinizing whether factors such as a bird strike or adverse weather conditions played a part in the tragedy, specifically noting that the Boeing 737-800 had its landing gear retracted upon impact—a troubling detail emerging from pre-flight reports that indicated no mechanical problems.

Families of the victims are also expressing frustration over the ongoing wait for the return of their loved one's remains, as the investigation unfolds to unveil answers many are desperately seeking.