One Year After Crash, Families Still Seek Answers from Jeju Air

It has been one year since a Jeju Air plane crashed during training, killing five people. Their families say they still do not know why. The accident happened on July 26, 2023. A Boeing 737-800 aircraft, operated by the South Korean budget carrier, was performing a "touch-and-go" training exercise. This is a practice maneuver where a plane lands and takes off again without stopping. The jet overshot the runway at Muan International Airport. It crashed into a nearby field and caught fire. Two pilots and three cabin crew trainers died. An official investigation is ongoing. However, the families of the victims accuse Jeju Air of avoiding responsibility. They held a press conference this week demanding a full explanation. The families' main question is simple: what caused the crash? They want the airline to release all related documents and communications. They also criticize what they call a slow and unclear investigation process. Jeju Air has expressed regret over the accident. The company says it is cooperating with the official investigation by South Korea's aviation authorities. Final findings from the government investigation are expected later this year. Until then, the families say they cannot find closure. They vow to continue their fight for a clear and honest account of what went wrong.