Despite its solid safety history, the Boeing 737-800, a prevalent aircraft model in global aviation, faced a tragic incident recently when a Jeju Air flight crashed in southwestern South Korea. Data from Cirium reveals that the 737-800 accounts for approximately 15% of the worldwide fleet, with around 4,400 units in service among nearly 200 airlines, including five South Korean carriers.
Najmedin Meshkati, an engineering professor at the University of Southern California, described the aircraft as generally safe, highlighting that its operational history has been largely positive. Nonetheless, the plane involved in the incident was 15 years old, and the average age of the 737-800 fleet varies significantly, extending from a mere five years to over 27 years.
Following the crash, officials initiated an investigation into its cause, with early speculation suggesting a possible bird strike could have compromised the landing gear. Such strikes are not uncommon in aviation, prompting some airports, including Muan International Airport, to employ various measures—such as auditory deterrents and preventive shooting—to manage bird populations effectively.
Meshkati pointed out that while the landing gear design has a strong reliability record, proper maintenance is critical. "Maintenance is really one of the most important causes of aviation accidents," he noted, underscoring the multifaceted nature of crash investigations.
In light of the tragedy, Boeing reached out to Jeju Air to extend support during the investigation, with the aviation community urged to avoid premature conclusions, recognizing the complexity often involved in such crash inquiries. Investigative outcomes could take considerable time as experts work to analyze numerous contributing factors to develop a complete understanding of the incident.
Najmedin Meshkati, an engineering professor at the University of Southern California, described the aircraft as generally safe, highlighting that its operational history has been largely positive. Nonetheless, the plane involved in the incident was 15 years old, and the average age of the 737-800 fleet varies significantly, extending from a mere five years to over 27 years.
Following the crash, officials initiated an investigation into its cause, with early speculation suggesting a possible bird strike could have compromised the landing gear. Such strikes are not uncommon in aviation, prompting some airports, including Muan International Airport, to employ various measures—such as auditory deterrents and preventive shooting—to manage bird populations effectively.
Meshkati pointed out that while the landing gear design has a strong reliability record, proper maintenance is critical. "Maintenance is really one of the most important causes of aviation accidents," he noted, underscoring the multifaceted nature of crash investigations.
In light of the tragedy, Boeing reached out to Jeju Air to extend support during the investigation, with the aviation community urged to avoid premature conclusions, recognizing the complexity often involved in such crash inquiries. Investigative outcomes could take considerable time as experts work to analyze numerous contributing factors to develop a complete understanding of the incident.
