In response to the Jeju Air flight 7C2216 crash on December 29, which resulted in 179 fatalities, South Korean authorities have announced significant safety reforms. The crash, attributed to factors including potential bird strikes, was exacerbated by a large berm supporting navigation antennas at the runway's end.
Authorities plan to modify or replace antenna foundations at seven airports, including Muan and Jeju International Airport, which are critical for landings. The transport ministry stated that Muan International Airport will completely remove its existing concrete localizer structure and replace it with a more fragile design.
Following a review of the Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) across the country, the ministry also announced an extension of safety zones at airports to meet regulatory standards. The runway safety area at Muan airport will increase from 200 meters to 240 meters.
In a separate development, Son Chang-wan, the former president of the Korea Airports Corporation, was found dead in an apparent suicide. He held office during the renovations of the Muan airport structure but was not under investigation related to the crash.
The shutdown of Muan airport has been extended until April 18, according to the transport ministry.