Missing Component Delays Investigation
The investigation into the crash of a South Korean plane, which killed 179 people, has been delayed due to a missing part in the flight data recorder (FDR). The FDR lost a connector, which links the data storage unit to the power storage unit.
Jeju Air Co.’s plane exploded at Muan International Airport on Sunday morning, and the FDR was recovered along with the cockpit voice recorder (CVR). However, the missing connector may hinder efforts to analyze the critical data that could explain the cause of the crash.
Restoration Efforts Underway
Deputy Minister for Civil Aviation, Joo Jong-wan, mentioned that experts are attempting to restore the data, but no timeline has been provided for when the issue will be resolved. The authorities are working to fix the problem as soon as possible.
The CVR, which records pilot communication and engine sounds, is also in authorities’ possession. Starting December 31, US aviation authorities and Boeing specialists will help analyze the data.
Bird Strikes and Other Factors
Preliminary evidence suggests that bird strikes could have been a factor in the crash, as communicated between the control tower and the pilot just before the explosion. A bird-strike warning was issued shortly before the crash, and the plane struck a wall at the end of the runway.
Investigators are also questioning the control tower staff and looking into the failure of the landing gears. The role of the localizer system, which guides planes during landing, is also being examined.