In Deadly South Korea Plane Crash, How 2 Crew Members Survived

Tragedy struck at South Korea’s Muan International Airport on Sunday when a Jeju Air flight from Bangkok crash-landed, claiming the lives of 179 out of 181 people onboard. Miraculously, two flight attendants survived the crash, as they were seated in the rear tail section of the aircraft—a location statistically known to be safer during accidents.

Survivors Pulled from Tail Section

The survivors, identified as 32-year-old Lee and 25-year-old Kwon, were rescued from the charred remains of the aircraft’s tail section. Both sustained serious injuries but are expected to recover. Lee suffered a fractured shoulder and head injuries, while Kwon sustained a fractured ankle, scalp laceration, and abdominal pain. Hospital staff confirmed that their lives are not in danger.

According to reports, both survivors are in shock and struggling to recall the events. Lee was heard repeatedly asking, “What happened?” and “Why am I here?”

Crash Details

The Boeing 737-800 attempted to land shortly after 9 a.m. but crashed into a fence, skidded off the runway, and burst into flames. Eyewitness footage showed thick black smoke rising from the wreckage. Investigators believe the crash was caused by a landing gear malfunction, as the plane appeared to attempt a belly landing with its landing gear not fully extended.

Passengers on Board

Among the passengers were a 78-year-old man and a three-year-old child, the oldest and youngest victims, respectively. Two Thai nationals were also confirmed to have died in the crash.

Safety Insights

Experts have pointed out that rear seats on an aircraft are statistically safer. A 2015 study by TIME Magazine found that seats in the back have a 32% fatality rate, compared to 39% in the middle and 38% in the front. This may explain how the two flight attendants, seated in the tail section, managed to survive this tragic incident.

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation into the crash, focusing on the suspected landing gear failure. The disaster has raised concerns about aviation safety, with calls for stricter checks and improved protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.