Jeju Air Disaster Victims File Complaint Against 15 Government and Airport Officials

Demands for Thorough Investigation and Disclosure of Information on the Incident

Officials from the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board investigating the cause of the Jeju Air passenger plane accident at Muan International Airport in Jeonnam are conducting an on-site inspection of the localizer facility. Photo by Yonhap News

The families of the victims of the Jeju Air disaster have filed a complaint against the government and airport officials, demanding a thorough investigation into the incident and the disclosure of information.

On May 13, the Jeju Air Disaster Victims' Families 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 purpose of the complaint is to determine whether the accused violated laws such as the Serious Accidents Punishment Act, occupational negligence resulting in death or injury, or the Aviation Safety Act, in relation to their roles and responsibilities.

Until now, the families of the victims have stated, "Despite this being a major disaster that claimed the lives of 179 people, no investigation has been conducted, nor have those responsible been held accountable. The incident is being forgotten." They have also demanded, "The Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board must disclose all information transparently to the families of the victims."

They have also insisted on the need to investigate several issues, including the reason for the emergency belly landing immediately after the aircraft collided with birds, the response of the control tower, and the maintenance of the aircraft's engine.

In addition, they have requested confirmation as to whether there was any violation of regulations concerning the embankment (localizer facility) at the end of the runway.

In connection with the Jeju Air disaster, both the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board and the Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency are currently conducting separate investigations.