Tragedy on the Runway: The Jeju Air Crash Investigation

The Jeju Air crash in South Korea resulted in 179 deaths and sparked urgent investigations. Authorities faced pressure from victims' families for swift identification and details. The U.S. NTSB joined South Korean efforts, examining factors like runway design and possible bird strikes that might have contributed to the disaster.

SEONGNAM, Dec 31 (Reuters) - Investigations into the Jeju Air crash have intensified as police and families of the deceased demand answers following the deadliest aviation disaster on South Korean soil. Authorities are fast-tracking victim identification with enhanced resources, though five bodies remain unidentified.

All aboard the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, totaling 175 passengers and four out of six crew members, perished in the crash that erupted into flames at Muan International Airport. As pressure mounts for information, South Korea's acting President has ordered a nationwide airline inspection, while international teams, including the U.S. NTSB, join the probe.

The investigation is addressing potential contributing factors such as the plane's control system failures and runway design shortcomings. Experts have criticized the airport's proximity to embankments, suggesting they flout best practices and exacerbated the crash's outcome.

(With inputs from agencies.)