US, Boeing investigators join probe into Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport

A team of U.S. investigators and Boeing Co. representatives has arrived at Muan International Airport to assist in the investigation of the recent Jeju Air crash, South Korean officials confirmed on December 31.

The team includes one member from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), three experts from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and four representatives from Boeing. They have joined forces with officials from South Korea's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board (ARAIB) to assess the crash site, Caliber.Az reports, citing South Korean media.

The U.S. team landed in South Korea on December 30 via Incheon International Airport and traveled directly to Muan, located about 290 kilometers southwest of Seoul, to begin their investigation. Joo Jong-wan, head of aviation policy at South Korea’s transport ministry, said the investigators have discussed the schedule, procedures, and specific areas of focus for the investigation.

As per the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, South Korea, where the accident occurred, is responsible for initiating the investigation. Countries with a stake in the incident, including the aircraft operator and manufacturer, as well as nations with victims, have the right to participate. Thailand, which had two nationals onboard the flight, has opted not to take part in the investigation.

Currently, the investigation team is examining the wreckage and debris at the crash site for any components that may offer clues about the cause of the accident. Investigators are paying particular attention to the two black boxes recovered from the wreckage. The flight data recorder (FDR) was found to be damaged, with a missing connector that links its data storage unit to the power supply. Despite the damage, authorities are exploring technical methods to extract the data. The cockpit voice recorder (CVR) appears to be in better condition.

Once the on-site investigation is completed, the team will move to the analysis phase, which will involve reviewing the recovered evidence and data extracted from the black boxes. Authorities are yet to decide whether to repair the damaged FDR domestically or send it to the NTSB in the U.S. for further examination.

Joo also stated that two air traffic controllers were on duty at Muan International Airport at the time of the crash. Both controllers have been interviewed, although their testimonies have not yet been made public.

In response to the incident, the South Korean government has announced the suspension of all operations at Muan International Airport until January 7, with plans to review the situation before determining whether to reopen the airport.

By Vugar Khalilov