What type of aircraft was involved in the deadly Jeju Air crash in South Korea in December 2024?

The deadly Jeju Air crash in South Korea in December 2024 involved a Boeing 737-800 aircraft. On December 29, 2024, Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, originating from Bangkok, Thailand, tragically crashed at Muan International Airport, resulting in the loss of 179 lives out of 181 people on board. The incident prompted a significant national response and an independent inquiry into the disaster.

The Boeing 737-800 is a widely used short-to-medium-range twin-engine jet airliner, part of the Boeing 737 Next Generation (NG) series. It is a workhorse for many airlines globally, including budget carriers, due to its efficiency and capacity. This particular model, distinct from the newer 737 MAX variants, has been in service for decades and is known for its reliability, making the incident particularly scrutinized within the aviation community.

Preliminary investigations into the crash of Flight 7C2216 suggest a complex sequence of events. Reports indicate that the aircraft experienced a bird strike, with both engines ingesting birds, while approaching Muan, leading to an apparent loss of thrust in one engine. Following a go-around, the landing gear reportedly did not deploy during the second landing attempt, resulting in a belly landing that overran the runway, striking an embankment and igniting. South Korean authorities and international experts, including from the US National Transportation Safety Board, are thoroughly investigating the accident to determine all contributing factors.

Such incidents underscore the critical importance of aviation safety protocols, aircraft maintenance, and pilot training. The ongoing investigation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of what led to this tragic event, with findings expected to inform future safety enhancements across the aviation industry. Lawsuits have also been filed against Boeing, alleging failures in the aircraft's systems.