Missing Data in South Korean Air Crash Raises Questions

The recent crash of Jeju Air flight, resulting in the death of 179 individuals, is under intense scrutiny, particularly due to the missing data from the final moments before the tragedy.

Flight data and cockpit voice recorders for the recent South Korean passenger plane crash have revealed that they ceased recording four minutes prior to the incident, according to the country's transportation ministry. The crash, which occurred last month, resulted in the highest number of fatalities in an aviation accident on South Korean territory, with 179 lives lost, while only two cabin crew members emerged as survivors.

Investigators had hoped the data from the so-called "black boxes" could provide critical insights into the last moments leading up to the disaster. In light of the missing recordings, the South Korean ministry announced that it would analyze the cause for the premature stoppage of these devices. Initially examined domestically, the recorders were later sent to the US for further analysis by American safety officials after the missing timestamps were discovered.

The Jeju Air flight was en route from Bangkok to Muan International Airport when it crash-landed and slid into a wall beyond the runway's end, igniting flames upon impact. Sim Jai-dong, a former investigator for the transport ministry, expressed surprise regarding the loss of data from the crucial final moments, suggesting that loss of all power, including backup systems, might have occurred.

Multiple questions persist about the events leading up to the catastrophe, including whether a bird strike or adverse weather conditions played a role. Additionally, investigators are examining why the Boeing 737-800 did not deploy its landing gear upon touchdown. Amidst the investigation, families of victims express profound frustration as they await the recovery of their loved ones' remains.