SEOUL, South Korea — On January 28, 2025, the tail of an Air Busan passenger plane caught fire at Gimhae International Airport before takeoff. The aircraft, carrying 176 people, was scheduled to fly to Hong Kong. Fortunately, all passengers and crew were safely evacuated, with three individuals sustaining minor injuries.
- Plane tail caught fire before takeoff
- 176 people safely evacuated from aircraft
- Incident occurred at Gimhae International Airport
- Three minor injuries reported among evacuees
- Previous crash in December killed 179 people
- Boeing 737-800 skidded off runway in December
The incident occurred in the southeastern city of Busan. The evacuation was conducted using an inflatable slide, ensuring a swift response to the emergency. Reports indicate that fire authorities in Busan did not respond to inquiries regarding the incident.
The Air Busan incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in aviation. The plane was preparing for departure when the fire ignited, prompting immediate action from the crew. Passengers were evacuated quickly via inflatable slides, a standard safety procedure in emergencies. Fortunately, the injuries sustained were not serious, indicating effective management of the situation.
In recent months, aviation safety has come under scrutiny in South Korea. In December 2024, a Jeju Air passenger plane crashed at Muan International Airport, resulting in the deaths of all but two of the 181 people on board. This incident raised alarms about safety protocols and the need for stringent measures in the aviation sector.
Key details from the Air Busan incident include:
- Flight was bound for Hong Kong with 169 passengers and 7 crew members.
- Evacuation was completed using inflatable slides.
- Three people reported minor injuries.
The quick evacuation and the minor injuries reported are a testament to the preparedness of the crew and the effectiveness of emergency procedures. As investigations continue, the focus will likely be on understanding the cause of the fire and improving safety measures to prevent future incidents.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in air travel. The successful evacuation of all passengers and crew underscores the effectiveness of emergency response protocols in aviation.
