Role of Concrete Wall Near Runway Questioned in South Korea Plane Crash
www.nytimes.com
Aviation safety analysts said they expect officials investigating the crash, which killed 179 people, to look into the location and composition of a structure housing an antenna.

Summary

Aviation analysts are investigating the deadly crash of Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 at Muan Airport, South Korea’s worst aviation disaster, killing 179 of 181 aboard.

The plane skidded on its belly and struck a concrete barrier housing a localizer antenna, leading to a fireball explosion.

Experts highlight the rigid structure’s role, contrasting it with softer, frangible barriers designed to minimize impact in runway safety areas.

Investigators will assess compliance with international safety standards and whether the airport’s infrastructure contributed to the crash.

Preliminary findings are expected in the coming month.

  • credo@lemmy.worldEnglish
    14·
    3 days ago

    The wall was absolutely the reason everyone died. I saw no RESA or EMAS in the posted video of the crash.

    • floofloof@lemmy.caEnglish
      13·
      3 days ago

      From the article:

      The International Civil Aviation Organization recommends a standard buffer zone of about 180 to 300 meters, or 591 feet to 984 feet, from the end of the runway. At Muan airport, the concrete structure surrounded by a mound of dirt sits roughly 250 meters from the end of the runway, according to local officials.

      So it’s not out of the usual range for distance, but the presence of an unbreakable barrier was a problem.

    • werefreeatlast@lemmy.worldEnglish
      16·
      3 days ago

      I think it was the approach they took. Has they flown along the wall, everything would have been just fine.

        • werefreeatlast@lemmy.worldEnglish
          12·
          3 days ago

          What about a big ass garage door? Like if you know you’ll be overshooting the runway, just press the button and it will open excruciatingly slowly. You still get the great American movie special effects, cuz the wings won’t fit in time. But you save everyone with only small bruises and concussions. Like for me, I rather have a concussion and have my entire family realize what a piece of shit flying really is, than you know, nothing. Nothing is easy, but then its nothing so that’s the end unless you gotta friend who wants to sue. But maybe the easiest way would be to not build a wall at the end of a runway? Imagine every take off… We’re not gonna make it! Steady! Captain! We need more power! I’m giving it all she’s got! Punch it! Goddam! I said punch it!..by god we made it Franky! We made it! Set a course for Ohio!