In the wake of the tragic Jeju Air crash that resulted in the loss of 179 lives, South Korea's transport ministry has declared significant changes to airport safety regulations aimed at preventing future disasters. The crash, which occurred on December 29, 2024, is considered the deadliest in the country's aviation history, with investigators still examining the causes, including a potential bird strike and the structural safety of Muan International Airport.

Following a comprehensive review, the ministry announced plans to remove concrete embankments supporting navigation antennas at nine airports, including Muan and Jeju International Airport, both crucial hubs in the region. Experts concluded that the concrete barriers likely aggravated the disaster. Reports stated that the aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, crashed into one of these concrete structures during an emergency landing attempt, leading to catastrophic consequences; only two crew members survived the incident.

The transport ministry indicated that the existing concrete structures would be replaced with "fragile" or "breakable" alternatives to mitigate risks in the future, echoing suggestions from aviation safety experts. “Muan International Airport plans to completely remove the existing concrete and reinstall the localiser in a fragile structure,” said a ministry official, reiterating a commitment to adhere to international safety standards, including those issued by the United Nations.

Additionally, the runway safety areas at several airports will be expanded to meet recommended lengths of 240 meters (787 feet), as Muan's previous safety area of 200 meters was deemed insufficient. This change comes in light of criticisms regarding the safety protocols followed during the renovations of the airport, which were conducted while Son Chang-wan served as president of the Korea Airports Corporation. Tragically, Son was recently found dead in what police have ruled an apparent suicide, although they stated he was not under investigation for the crash.

The government will be working towards ensuring that all navigational structures comply with safety regulations, addressing long-standing criticism over airport safety measures. Officials have confirmed that necessary renovations and implementation of improved safety protocols at Muan International Airport and others will be completed shortly, with full compliance expected by mid-April.

As investigations continue, families of the victims are mourning the loss, while officials face scrutiny over historical safety practices. Reuters reports that authorities are actively seeking to prevent similar tragedies in the future.