In a move that escalates the call for accountability, families of the victims from the tragic Jeju Air plane crash have initiated a criminal complaint against airline executives and officials, demanding a thorough probe into the incident that claimed 179 lives.
Families of Jeju Air Crash Victims Press Criminal Charges Against Airline Executives
Families of Jeju Air Crash Victims Press Criminal Charges Against Airline Executives
Bereaved relatives seek justice as questions linger over December plane disaster.
Families of victims from the deadly Jeju Air plane crash, which occurred on December 29 at Muan International Airport, have formally submitted a criminal complaint against 15 individuals, including the airline's CEO and South Korea’s transport minister, citing professional negligence. This legal action reflects the anguish of the 72 bereaved relatives, who argue that the disaster was precipitated by lapses in risk management rather than being merely an unfortunate accident. As investigations continue nearly five months later, key figures, including Jeju Air's CEO Kim E-bae, have been barred from leaving the country amid growing frustrations over the lack of progress.
Relative Kim Da-hye voiced the group's sentiments, emphasizing their relentless pursuit of truth in the aftermath of such a profound loss. Among those implicated are various government and airline officials associated with air traffic control, construction oversight, and facility management. The Boeing 737-800, which had taken off from Bangkok, encountered trouble shortly before landing when pilots reported a bird strike, ultimately leading to a crash landing.
Despite the discovery of bird feathers in the engines, investigators have yet to determine how much the bird strike contributed to the crash. Further complicating matters, some families have been subjected to online harassment and conspiracies regarding their loss and claims for compensation, with authorities apprehending individuals responsible for posting derogatory comments. In the midst of their grief, these families continue to demand accountability and transparency surrounding the events that led to South Korea's most catastrophic aviation disaster.
