Fatal Jeju Air Disaster Exposes Critical Safety Flaws at Seven South Korean Airports

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SEOUL,SOUTH KOREA: A devastating December crash that claimed 179 lives has forced South Korean authorities to confront dangerous infrastructure issues at multiple airports nationwide. Aviation safety inspectors have identified hazardous landing guidance structures at seven domestic airports, including Muan where the fatal Jeju Air accident occurred.

In a damning revelation on Monday, the transport ministry acknowledged that concrete and steel embankments housing critical landing guidance systems require urgent modification. Safety experts have particularly criticized the Muan airport's embankment design, which they believe contributed to the high death toll when Jeju Air's Boeing 737-800 struck it after skidding off the runway.

"The placement of these structures likely exacerbated what could have been a survivable incident," said an aviation safety expert familiar with the investigation. Only two of the 181 passengers survived after the aircraft burst into flames upon impact.

The ministry's sweeping safety audit has also uncovered troubling operational violations among domestic carriers operating Boeing 737-800s. Airlines were found neglecting pre- and post-flight inspection schedules and failing to follow proper procedures for addressing aircraft defects and passenger boarding protocols.

While officials declined to name specific carriers, including whether Jeju Air was among those with violations, the findings have prompted immediate action. The government has announced plans to complete structural improvements at all affected airports by the end of 2025, with detailed modification plans expected this month.

Meanwhile, Muan airport's closure has been extended to January 19 as investigations continue. The transport ministry has also ordered a special safety inspection of major airport facilities nationwide, scheduled for January 13-21.

The crash and subsequent revelations have raised serious questions about South Korea's aviation safety oversight, particularly regarding infrastructure design and airline compliance with safety regulations. As the country races to address these critical safety issues, the aviation industry faces increased scrutiny and pressure to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

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