Seoul, January 4, 2025: South Korean investigators are close to completing the transcript of the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) retrieved from the wreckage of Jeju Air flight 2216, which crashed last Sunday, claiming 179 lives. The transcript is expected to provide crucial insights into the tragic accident.
The Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, carrying 181 passengers and crew, was on its way from Thailand to South Korea when it crash-landed during a second attempt to land at Muan International Airport. The aircraft skidded off the runway and collided with a concrete barrier, resulting in a fiery explosion.
Officials from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport have confirmed that the CVR transcript is nearing completion, while preparations are underway to send the flight data recorder (FDR) to the United States for detailed analysis. The investigation is being conducted in collaboration with U.S. experts, including Boeing representatives, to ascertain the cause of the crash.
“The cockpit voice recorder transcript is expected to be finalized today,” said a ministry spokesperson. “Additionally, the aircraft’s engine has been recovered from the crash site.”
Investigators are examining multiple potential causes, including a bird strike, landing gear malfunction, and the collision with the runway barrier. In connection with the probe, search operations have been carried out at Muan Airport, the regional aviation office, and Jeju Air’s headquarters in Seoul.
According to reports, the pilot alerted air traffic control to a possible bird strike during the first landing attempt. However, during the second approach, the landing gear reportedly failed to deploy, leading to the fatal collision. Dramatic footage captured the moment the plane hit the barrier and burst into flames.
Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae has been barred from leaving the country while the investigation continues, according to South Korean police.
Recovery efforts are ongoing, with authorities focusing on retrieving wreckage and personal belongings to return to victims’ families. Items such as smartphones and Thai-sourced dried mangoes and coconuts have been handed over to grieving relatives.
The majority of those onboard were South Korean holidaymakers returning from end-of-year trips to Bangkok, along with two Thai nationals.
As South Korea mourns one of its deadliest aviation disasters in recent years, investigators are working urgently to determine what went wrong and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
