In the closing days of 2024, aviation safety faced intense scrutiny as four alarming accidents occurred globally, including latest Jeju Air. These incidents, spanning South Korea, Azerbaijan, Canada, and Norway, have raised pressing concerns about travel safety during the holiday season.
Social media buzzed with reports and videos of these accidents, with the Jeju Air tragedy emerging as the most devastating. This particular incident claimed 179 lives, leaving families and authorities grappling with its aftermath.
Azerbaijan Plane Crash on Christmas Day
On December 25, an Azerbaijan Airlines flight carrying 67 people crashed in western Kazakhstan, killing 38 and injuring others.
The flight, scheduled from Baku to Grozny, diverted near Aktau due to suspected electronic interference. According to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the plane was accidentally shot down in Russian airspace amidst Ukraine-related tensions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized for the incident, while Aliyev criticized efforts to conceal the truth. He demanded accountability, emphasizing the need for transparency. Investigations are ongoing as families seek answers.
Jeju Air Tragedy in South Korea
South Korea faced its worst aviation disaster when a Jeju Air plane crashed during landing on Sunday morning.
The twin-engine aircraft, carrying 181 passengers, skidded on the runway before slamming into a wall. Flames engulfed the site, leaving 179 dead and only two survivors. Footage captured the devastating aftermath as debris scattered across the area.
Authorities set up a temporary morgue while recovering victims. South Korea declared a seven-day mourning period, and Jeju Air’s CEO publicly apologized for the tragedy.
Fire on Air Canada Express Flight
On December 28, an Air Canada Express flight from St. John’s to Halifax encountered an onboard fire upon landing.
Passengers noticed smoke filling the cabin before being evacuated quickly. Fortunately, no fatalities occurred. Halifax airport resumed normal operations shortly after. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the fire’s cause.
KLM Flight Veers Off Runway
On the same day, KLM flight KL1204, traveling from Oslo to Amsterdam, experienced an incident upon landing at Sandefjord Airport.
After a loud noise mid-flight, the Boeing 737 veered off the runway and into the grass at low speed. Thankfully, all 176 passengers and six crew members remained unharmed. KLM swiftly arranged transportation and accommodations for affected passengers.
