South Korea's transport minister announces resignation after plane crash

South Korea's transport minister announces resignation after plane crash

Transport Minister Park Sang-woo apologized for the accident and said he was considering taking appropriate measures and resigning.

The crash of Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 in South Korea has sparked deep grief and political pressure in the country. The incident, which killed 179 people, is considered the deadliest aviation disaster in the country's history.

Transport Minister Park Sang-woo sincerely apologized for the incident at a press conference and said he "intends to take appropriate measures as a responsible official to resolve this crisis." He said he would consider resigning once the crisis is resolved.

The Boeing 737-800 was flying from Bangkok to Mueang. The plane lost control of the runway due to a landing gear failure and crashed into a wall. Authorities confirmed that during the investigation, one of the plane's engines suffered extensive damage from a bird strike.

Before the plane crash, the pilot sent a "Mayday" call to report that the plane had hit a flock of birds. This signal was intended to provide a timely explanation for the technical problem, but it was not possible to prevent the tragedy.

Seven days of national mourning were declared in South Korea following the crash.