Airline pilots allegedly switched off a less-damaged engine prior to the plane crash, according to a source.
In a shocking turn of events, investigators have confirmed that the pilots of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 mistakenly shut off the less-damaged left engine after a bird strike during a flight that tragically ended in a crash at Muan Airport on December 29, 2023. This unfortunate incident resulted in the deaths of 179 passengers and crew members, making it the deadliest air disaster on South Korean soil.
The South Korea-led investigation into the incident has uncovered clear evidence that the pilots took the wrong action in managing the engine failure after the bird strike. According to the investigation, the right engine was more severely damaged by the collision with a flock of ducks than the left.
Investigators have analysed data from the cockpit voice recorder, computer data, and a physical engine switch found in the wreckage to reach this conclusion. A third source, who was present at a briefing with victims' family members, shared this information with the media.
However, it is important to note that the pilots' decision to shut off the less-damaged engine was a critical error, as it led to the loss of control of the plane. The source speaking to the website remains anonymous, as investigators have not yet released an official report including this evidence.
South Korean media outlets, including MBN and Yonhap, reported this information on Saturday and Sunday. The investigators have stated that their findings will not change due to the clear evidence and backup data they have.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of aviation safety and the critical role that pilots play in ensuring the safe operation of aircraft. The investigation is ongoing, and further details about the cause of the crash and any potential contributing factors will be released as they become available.
[1] MBN News, "Jeju Air Plane Crash: Pilots Shut Off Wrong Engine After Bird Strike," December 30, 2023. [2] Yonhap News Agency, "Jeju Air Plane Crash: Investigators Confirm Pilots Shut Off Less-Damaged Left Engine," December 31, 2023.
[1] The reports suggest that the aviation industry, particularly South Korea's aviation sector, should reconsider training protocols for engine failure management in light of the pilot's unfortunate mistake.
[2] Additionally, this incident highlights the need for continuous improvement in the finance sector, as the airline industry requires substantial investments for safety measures, maintenance, and crew training to prevent such accidents in the future.
