Dozens Feared Dead in South Korean Airport Plane Fire
December 29, 2024
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A Jeju Air passenger plane crashed and caught fire at Muan International Airport in southern South Korea on Sunday after veering off the runway and hitting a fence, killing at least 47 people, according to reports.
The aircraft, carrying approximately 180 people returning from Bangkok, experienced landing gear malfunction during the incident.
Why It Matters
The incident occurs amid significant intense political changes in South Korea, following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s imposition of martial law and the subsequent impeachment of acting President Han Duck-soo, with Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok assuming leadership responsibilities.
What To Know
According to the emergency office, rescue operations are ongoing as officials work to evacuate passengers from the aircraft. The fire has been largely contained by emergency responders.
While South Korean media outlets, including Yonhap news agency and the National Fire Agency, have reported at least 47 casualties. Emergency workers have successfully evacuated at least two passengers. The agency said it deployed 32 fire trucks and several helicopters to help contain the blaze.
Local television footage captured thick black smoke billowing from the plane as flames engulfed the aircraft. Emergency officials are currently investigating the precise cause of the fire, with initial focus on the reported landing gear malfunction.
Firefighters and rescue team members work at the Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. (Maeng Dae-hwan/Newsis via AP) Firefighters and rescue team members work at the Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. (Maeng Dae-hwan/Newsis via AP)
What People Are Saying
According to the Yonhap news agency, Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok has directed officials to mobilize all available resources for rescue operations.
Fire engines work to extinguish a fire at the Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. (Maeng Dae-hwan/Newsis via AP) Fire engines work to extinguish a fire at the Muan International Airport in Muan, South Korea, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024. (Maeng Dae-hwan/Newsis via AP)
What Happens Next
Rescue operations continue as emergency responders work to evacuate remaining passengers and crew members. The investigation into the crash’s cause will examine multiple factors, including the reported landing gear malfunction.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
Update, 12/28/2025 at 10:07 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
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