Aviation investigators in South Korea have discovered evidence of a bird strike on the engine of a crashed airliner, which may have contributed to the tragic loss of life.
Investigation Underway to Determine Cause of Crash
South Korean investigators are now set to tear into the engine of the crashed Boeing 737-800, which was flying from Thailand to Muan in South Korea on December 29. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the crash that resulted in the deaths of all but two of the 181 crew and passengers on board.
Bird Feathers and Bloodstains Found in Engines
Bird feathers and bloodstains were discovered in both engines of the Jeju Air plane, according to the first report on the aviation disaster confirmed on Monday. The findings suggest that a bird strike may have played a role in the crash.
Baikal Teals Identified as Bird Species
The samples collected from the engine were sent for DNA analysis and identified as belonging to Baikal Teals, a migratory duck species that flies to Korea from its breeding grounds in Siberia during the winter season. This information is crucial in understanding the potential cause of the crash.
Pilots Warned of Potential Bird Strikes
Data from the recorder shows that air traffic control warned the pilots against potential bird strikes after giving it clearance to land. A minute later, both voice and data recording systems on board failed. Within seconds, the pilots declared mayday due to a bird strike and attempted a belly landing when the landing gear did not deploy.
Investigation Activities Underway
The investigation team will now take apart the engines and closely examine the parts. They will also analyze in-flight data and air traffic control recordings. Additionally, they will look into the embankment, localizers, and any signs of a bird strike.
Expert Analysis Suggests Localizer May Have Contributed to Crash
Some experts have suggested that the Muan airport’s localizer may have made the crash worse. In response, South Korea has announced plans to remove concrete structures in airports nationwide and replace them with “breakable structures”.
