Jeju Air could face severe consequences, including a suspension of operations, pending the outcome of an investigation into a fatal crash at Muan International Airport. The incident, which occurred during landing, involved the aircraft colliding with an external structure and resulted in 179 fatalities. Experts warn that unless the crash is attributed to an unavoidable event, such as a bird strike, the airline will likely be held legally responsible.
The case bears similarities to the 2013 crash involving Asiana Airlines, which faced suspension after a crash at San Francisco International Airport. That incident, caused by pilot error, set a precedent for holding airlines accountable for lapses in oversight.
In July 2013, Asiana Airlines Flight 214 crashed during landing at San Francisco International Airport when a Boeing 777-28E/ER struck a seawall near the runway. The crash resulted in three fatalities and 187 injuries, including 49 people who were seriously hurt. Investigators found that the pilots failed to execute a go-around despite an unstable approach and a high descent rate, causing the aircraft to descend below the standard glide path.
Further examination revealed that the flight crew included both a pilot undergoing initial training and an instructor supervising for the first time. In November 2014, more than a year after the crash, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) determined that Asiana Airlines had violated its duty of care in assigning and supervising its pilots. The airline was suspended from operating its Incheon–San Francisco route for 45 days, reduced from the maximum 90 days due to the crew’s efforts to minimize casualties.
Although Asiana Airlines contested the decision, South Korea’s Supreme Court upheld the suspension in 2019, reinforcing the standard of accountability for airline oversight.
Industry insiders suggest Jeju Air could face similar disciplinary actions. If negligence or operational errors are identified in the Muan crash, the airline may face sanctions under the Aviation Safety Act. The act allows the MOLIT to revoke an operator’s license or impose a suspension of up to six months if gross negligence or failure to oversee personnel is determined.
Given the scale of the Muan tragedy, Jeju Air could face up to 150 days of suspension for its Thailand–Muan route if culpability is established. This would be the second-highest penalty under the act, with the maximum reserved for accidents involving 200 or more deaths.
