Could a Bird Strike or Technical Glitch Be to Blame? 179 Dead in Jeju Air Flight from Bangkok to Muan, South Korea

Among the victims were 84 males, 85 females, and 10 individuals whose identities remain undetermined. Two Thai nationals were also onboard, while the remaining passengers were South Korean.

Authorities are investigating whether a bird strike or a technical failure led to the crash. Air traffic controllers reportedly warned the pilot about bird strike risks shortly before the incident. One of the surviving crew members mentioned a possible bird strike during rescue efforts.

Aviation experts stress that bird strikes can cause catastrophic damage, especially during takeoff or landing. Nationwide bird strike incidents have risen steadily, from 108 in 2019 to 152 in 2023, possibly due to climate change. Migratory birds are increasingly becoming permanent residents, altering the risks airports face. South Korean airports are exploring advanced solutions, such as AI and radar systems, to mitigate these dangers.

The flight data recorder has been recovered and is expected to provide critical information. However, the cockpit voice recorder, another vital investigative tool, is still missing. Early reports suggest the control tower directed the pilot to change course shortly before the crash, possibly to avoid a bird strike. A mayday call followed shortly after.

Over 700 personnel, including police, military, and coast guard, have been mobilized to assist in rescue and recovery operations. One of the survivors, a 33-year-old flight attendant, is awake and communicating with medical staff. Her account may shed further light on the events leading to the crash.

As investigators work to uncover the truth behind the crash, questions linger. Could a bird strike or a technical glitch have caused such devastation? With 179 lives lost, this tragedy underscores the importance of addressing both natural and mechanical risks in aviation. The world awaits clarity as South Korea mourns its deadliest air disaster in decades.