At least 28 people have been confirmed dead after a devastating plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea. The Jeju Air flight, carrying 181 passengers and crew, was returning from Bangkok when the tragedy occurred, Yonhap News Agency reported on Sunday.
The aircraft veered off the runway during landing, smashing into a wall and bursting into flames. Haunting images from the scene reveal a massive plume of smoke billowing into the sky as firefighters battled to extinguish the blaze.
Emergency responders raced to the site, where survivors were pulled from the wreckage amidst scenes of chaos and devastation. Authorities have not yet disclosed the number of injured passengers but have indicated that several were transported to nearby hospitals in critical condition.
“The plane started shaking violently as it approached the runway,” recounted one survivor. “Then there was a loud crash, and everything went dark.”
South Korean aviation authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, with preliminary reports suggesting the possibility of mechanical failure. Weather conditions at the time of the incident were reported as clear, ruling out adverse weather as a factor.
This marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea in recent years, sending shockwaves through the nation and raising questions about airline safety protocols.
Jeju Air has yet to release a statement, while families of the victims have gathered at the airport seeking answers and updates on their loved ones.
More information is expected as investigations continue. Stay tuned to XMN News for the latest updates on this developing story.