The families of victims who lost their lives in a devastating plane crash involving Jeju Air have taken a significant step by filing a criminal complaint against 15 individuals, including the airline’s CEO, Kim E-bae, and South Korea’s transport minister. The complaint, submitted to the Jeonnam Provincial Police agency, alleges professional negligence and calls for a thorough investigation into the crash that claimed 179 lives on December 29, 2024.
The Jeju Air plane, a Boeing 737-800, was approaching Muan International Airport when it experienced a bird strike, prompting the pilots to declare a mayday alert and attempt an emergency landing. Unfortunately, the plane’s landing gear failed to deploy, resulting in a belly landing that caused the aircraft to crash into a concrete structure and burst into flames.
The families, represented by 72 bereaved relatives, are seeking answers and accountability for what they describe as a “major civic disaster caused by negligent management of preventable risks.” They have expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation, which has been ongoing for nearly five months. The complaint names government officials, airline officials, and airport staff responsible for construction, supervision, facility management, and bird control, among others.
The investigation into the crash is still underway, with authorities examining various factors, including the bird strike, air traffic control response, and potential issues with the runway’s design. The families’ complaint is seen as a symbolic step, pushing for a swifter and more thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. As the investigation continues, the families of the victims remain determined to uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
