Exclusion of Senior Officials in Jeju Air Plane Crash Investigation to Ensure Fair and Objective Probe
The South Korean government has taken measures to ensure the integrity of the investigation into the recent Jeju Air plane crash, which claimed 179 lives on December 29. According to Transport Minister Park Sang-woo, former and current senior officials have been excluded from participating in the investigation to avoid conflicts of interest and ensure a fair and objective probe.
Exclusion of Senior Officials
Park announced the plan to exclude senior officials from the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board, which is responsible for investigating the fatal crash. Chang Man-hee, the chairman of the board and a former ministry official, and Joo Jong-wan, the head of the ministry’s aviation policy office serving as a standing board member, have been excluded from all board activities.
Investigation Process
The investigation process is being conducted in compliance with international norms and domestic laws to ensure fairness. Park emphasized the importance of a thorough and transparent investigation, stating, "To clearly determine the cause of the accident, we will continue the investigation in compliance with international norms and domestic laws to ensure fairness."
Progress of Investigation
Park reported that the data transcription of the cockpit voice recorder from the crashed B737-800 aircraft has been completed, and the separate flight data recorder was transported to the United States on Monday for analysis.
Improvement of Airport Infrastructure
Regarding the controversy surrounding the localiser structure at Muan International Airport, which has been identified as a factor that exacerbated the accident, Park assured that authorities are well aware of concerns and will swiftly improve the structures at airports with safety in mind.
Conclusion
The exclusion of senior officials from the investigation is a crucial step in ensuring the integrity of the probe into the Jeju Air plane crash. The government’s commitment to a fair and objective investigation is essential in determining the cause of the accident and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why were senior officials excluded from the investigation?
A: To avoid conflicts of interest and ensure a fair and objective probe.
Q: What is the status of the investigation?
A: The data transcription of the cockpit voice recorder has been completed, and the separate flight data recorder has been transported to the United States for analysis.
Q: What is being done to improve airport infrastructure?
A: Authorities are well aware of concerns and will swiftly improve the structures at airports with safety in mind.