Jeju Air Disaster Victims' Families File Criminal Complaint Against 15 Including Government and Airline Officials

Investigation Needed on Go-Around and Landing Decisions After Bird Strike
Maintenance and Air Traffic Control Responses Must Also Be Examined

In connection with the Jeju Air disaster that occurred in December of last year, the victims' families have filed a criminal complaint against the government, the airline, and airport officials.

Jeju Air disaster victims' families are submitting a complaint on the 13th in front of the Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency, demanding a thorough investigation and punishment of those responsible. Provided by the victims' families

On May 13, seventy-two members of the "12·29 Jeju Air Disaster Victims' Families" announced that they had filed a complaint against 15 individuals, including the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the CEO of Jeju Air, and the CEO of Korea Airports Corporation. The charges include occupational negligence resulting in death or injury and violations of the Aviation Safety Act. The families stated that the disaster was a major civil tragedy caused by negligence in managing foreseeable risks. The complaint also considers whether the Serious Accidents Punishment Act should be applied to those responsible, depending on their legal positions.

The victims' families are demanding a thorough investigation into both the causes of the accident and the overall initial response. They have called for clarification on whether the decision to attempt a go-around after the bird strike was appropriate, whether there were any issues with air traffic control responses until the emergency landing was made, and whether the aircraft's engine maintenance was adequate. In particular, they have urged investigators to look into whether the runway end's azimuth facility was installed in violation of regulations and whether its maintenance in that state contributed to the severity of the accident.

Lim Taeho, head of the Jeju Air Legal Support Team at the Gwangju Bar Association, who provided legal support for the complaint, stated, "Through this criminal complaint, the victims' families have obtained legal standing in the investigation process." He emphasized, "Investigative authorities must transparently share the progress of the investigation with the families and do their utmost to protect their rights."

Meanwhile, the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board and the Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency are each conducting their own investigations to determine the cause of the accident and establish accountability.