Busan: Authorities successfully retrieved black boxes from an Air Busan passenger plane that caught fire at Gimhae International Airport earlier this week, as they work to establish safety measures prior to launching a formal investigation, the land ministry announced.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Airbus plane, operated by budget carrier Air Busan and en route to Hong Kong, caught fire before takeoff on Tuesday. All 176 individuals on board were evacuated safely using an escape slide, although seven sustained minor injuries. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, with speculation suggesting a possible ignition by a portable battery or other items stowed in an overhead compartment.
The aviation and railway accident investigation board, under the ministry, convened a meeting with local police, firefighting agencies, and the National Forensic Service on Thursday. The agenda focused on ensuring safety during the joint investigation, as the aircraft still contained 35,000 pounds of fuel in its wings. Detailed investigation plans are expected following a site visit to assess conditions and safety protocols.
"If the plane catches fire again during the investigation, it could explode," an official warned. Authorities are considering whether to defuel the aircraft, despite challenges posed by damage to the fuselage.
A French investigative team will join the probe later in the day, in compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization's rule mandating participation of the aircraft's manufacturing nation in the investigation. Officials confirmed that black boxes were retrieved from the aircraft earlier in the day.
Some passengers reported to Yonhap News Agency witnessing flames in an overhead compartment at the plane's rear left, accompanied by crackling noises and smoke. "We will keep all possibilities open to find the exact cause of the fire," stated a ministry official.
In December, an Air Busan plane fire, attributed to a passenger's portable battery, highlighted the need for stricter rules on carry-on baggage. As similar incidents have been noted, there are increasing calls for tougher regulations.
Investigators aim to scrutinize existing regulations, the airline's adherence to safety protocols, and the handling of the incident. They are also exploring the remote possibility of terrorism, though no evidence suggests terrorist activity.
This event comes less than a month after a Jeju Air plane crash at Muan International Airport, resulting in the loss of 179 lives, marking it as South Korea's deadliest aviation disaster.