Heads up, travelers! ✈️ South Korea is taking big steps to amp up airport safety after a tragic Jeju Air crash last December. The Boeing 737-800 skidded off the runway at Muan airport, burst into flames, and sadly, 179 out of 181 people on board lost their lives. 😢
The crash happened when the plane hit an antenna structure, known as a \"localizer,\" which guides landings. Now, the government's transport ministry is on a mission to improve these structures at airports nationwide. 🔧🛠️
Seven airports, including Muan, were found to have concrete or steel embankments that need a makeover. The ministry plans to kick off these improvements this month and wrap them up by the end of 2025. Better late than never, right?
Aviation experts are saying these dangerous embankments might have made the crash even worse. Yikes! 😱 They're urging for swift action to prevent future tragedies.
On top of that, the government is tightening up inspections on airlines flying Boeing 737-800s. Some airlines got caught slipping with safety checks and procedures. Not cool! 🚫 The ministry isn't naming names, but they're definitely cracking down.
Between January 13 and 21, a special safety inspection of major airport facilities is going down. Safety first, folks! 🛡️ Plus, Muan airport is staying closed until January 19 while they sort things out.
This move shows South Korea's commitment to keeping skies safe for everyone. Let's hope these changes make flying smoother and safer for all of us! 🌟
Reference(s):
South Korea plans to overhaul airport structures after Jeju Air crash
cgtn.com
