South Korea to replace concrete barriers after Jehu Air crash

South Korean authorities have announced plans to replace the concrete barriers used for navigation at several airports nationwide following the tragic crash of Jeju Air Flight 801.

The Boeing 737-800, which was flying from Thailand to Muan in the southwest on December 29, crashed while attempting to land at Muan International Airport, resulting in the deaths of 179 people. The crash occurred after the plane belly-landed and exploded upon slamming into a concrete barrier at the end of the runway.

Investigations by both South Korean and US authorities are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the crash, which prompted nationwide mourning. Memorials have been set up across the country in honor of the victims.

The investigation has raised concerns about the placement of the concrete barrier, known as a localiser, which helps planes navigate their landings.

Questions have been raised about its location at the end of the runway, and the Ministry of Land has stated that a special safety inspection revealed the need for improvements at several airports, including Muan and Jeju International Airport, a popular tourist destination and South Korea’s second-largest airport.

In response, the Ministry outlined measures to improve safety, including relocating the localiser foundations underground and replacing them with lightweight steel structures. Muan International Airport’s current concrete mounds will be completely removed, and the localiser will be reinstalled using breakable materials.

Additionally, the ministry has launched a comprehensive survey of bird-attracting facilities around airports as part of its bird strike prevention initiative.