The South Korean government has initiated a comprehensive safety inspection of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft employed by domestic airlines in response to a catastrophic incident involving Jeju Air. The move follows the crash of one of its jets on Sunday, which resulted in the deaths of at least 179 individuals.

During a briefing held at the Sejong government complex, Joo Jong-wan, the aviation policy chief from the South Korean transport ministry stated, "We plan to implement rigorous aviation safety inspections in response to the (landing gear) incidents." This announcement comes after reports of multiple landing gear problems within the airline, ultimately raising serious safety concerns. Notably, on the morning following the crash, another Jeju Air flight experienced a similar malfunction shortly after takeoff but was able to return safely to Gimpo International Airport.

Details from the initial disaster indicate that the plane failed to deploy its landing gear before crashing into Muan International Airport and bursting into flames. Reports suggest that the crash may have been influenced by prior bird-strike warnings issued by the control tower shortly before landing attempts.

According to the India Times, flight 7C101, which was slated for Jeju Island, took off at approximately 6:37 AM and returned to the airport at 7:25 AM due to landing gear concerns detected immediately after takeoff. Jeju Air management stated that on detection of the issue, "the captain communicated with ground control," and the aircraft safely returned after troubleshooting measures allowed the landing gear to function normally.

In light of these incidents, Joo confirmed the government's decision to scrutinize the operational protocols of the Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The investigation will focus on adherence to regulations, including thorough maintenance and inspection records as well as overall aircraft utilization rates.

Jeju Air, which operates a fleet where the 737-800 makes up 39 of its 41 aircraft, faces mounting scrutiny as it contends with the fallout of this aviation crisis. South Korea's acting president, Choi Sang-mok, commented on the national tragedy, expressing his condolences to the families affected by the disaster.

As the investigation develops, cooperation from entities such as the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board and *Boeing* is expected to materialize to ensure accountability and enhance aviation safety standards moving forward.