Passenger’s Final Messages Reveal Distress Before Crash
As rescue efforts continue at Muan International Airport following the tragic crash of Jeju Air Flight 2216, chilling messages from a passenger aboard the flight have emerged. These messages, shared with News1 by a family member, provide insight into the moments leading up to the disaster.
Details of the Flight and Incident
On December 29, 2024, at approximately 9:07 AM KST, Jeju Air Flight 2216, carrying 181 individuals (175 passengers and 6 crew members) from Bangkok to Muan, encountered severe difficulties during landing. Reports indicate that the aircraft was unable to deploy its landing gear, leading to a catastrophic belly landing that resulted in numerous casualties.
Chilling KakaoTalk Messages Shared
In the final messages sent via KakaoTalk, the passenger expressed distress about a potential bird strike. The conversation included:
- Passenger: “We’re holding.”
- Passenger: “A bird got stuck in the wing…”
- Family: “Huh?”
- Passenger: “…so we can’t land yet.”
- Family: “Since when?”
- Passenger: “Just now.”
- Passenger: “Should I leave a will?”
These messages suggest that the passenger was aware of a bird strike affecting the aircraft’s ability to land safely. However, authorities have yet to confirm this as the definitive cause of the crash.
Rescue Efforts and Casualty Updates
Current Status of Rescue Operations
As of now, updates from Muan International Airport confirm that at least 62 people have died as rescue teams work tirelessly at the crash site. According to reports from the Jeonnam Fire Department, only two individuals have been rescued from the wreckage, while the majority are presumed dead.
