Families of the victims from the tragic Jeju Air plane crash in December are actively pursuing legal action against key officials, alleging negligence and demanding justice.
Families of Jeju Air Plane Crash Victims File Criminal Complaint Against Airline CEO
Families of Jeju Air Plane Crash Victims File Criminal Complaint Against Airline CEO
Bereaved families demand accountability and thorough investigation of December catastrophe that claimed 179 lives.
Seventy-two relatives of those who perished in the Jeju Air disaster have formally lodged a criminal complaint against 15 individuals, including the airline's CEO, Kim E-bae, and South Korea’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. This action follows a catastrophic incident on December 29, when a Boeing 737-800, flying from Bangkok to Muan International Airport, belly-landed without deploying its landing gear, resulting in the deaths of 179 out of 181 onboard. This marks one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea’s history.
The families contend that the crash was "not a simple accident," but rather a "major civic disaster" stemming from the "negligent management of preventable risks." Nearly five months after the incident, authorities are still investigating the multiple factors that could have led to the crash and subsequent fire.
Despite a police investigation already being underway, no individuals have been charged, leading to heightened frustration among the victims' families. Kim Da-hye, one of the complainants, expressed deep discontent with the slow progress, stating, “We are filled with deep anger and despair.” By bringing this complaint, they emphasize their relentless pursuit of the truth.
In addition to airline officials, the complaint includes airport personnel responsible for construction, supervision, facility management, and bird control. Key questions arise regarding the adequacy of response from air traffic control and whether infrastructure modifications around the airport complied with safety regulations.
The distressing sequence of events began when the pilots reported a bird strike shortly before landing. They declared a mayday and attempted to land from a different direction, ultimately resulting in a catastrophic belly landing and an explosive end after colliding with a structure.
While investigators discovered bird feathers in the jet’s engines, it remains unconfirmed how significantly the bird strike contributed to the crash. Accompanying the grief, some bereaved families have faced online harassment, including accusations of insincerity and exploitation, leading to several apprehensions over defamatory online statements.
The community remains watchful as the investigation unfolds, hoping for justice for the victims of this tragic event.
