Massive aircraft crashes, while very rare, are often catastrophic events that result in significant loss of life. These events often leave an indelible and deep impression on airlines and society, prompting efforts to improve safety and minimize future risks. At the end of 2024, there were two crashes, Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 and Jeju Air Flight 2216.
The causes of these mass aircraft crashes can be divided into three main categories: human error, mechanical failure, and other external factors. Human error is usually due to poor communication, poor decision-making, or driver fatigue, which remains the main cause. The next category is mechanical failure, including engine failure or structural defects. Besides human error and mechanical failure, external factors including extreme weather conditions, bird strikes, or terrorist attacks add another layer of complexity to aviation safety.
On Dec. 25, 2024, an airliner crashed in Xinjiang, China, killing many people. Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243 crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing 38 people and leaving only 29 survivors. According to preliminary reports, Russia’s air defense system most likely shut the plane down or it may have been misidentified due to tensions in the local area. The plane was repaired in October 2024 and deviated from its scheduled route before the crash. These crashes cast the darkest shadow on the lives of survivors. According to them, many people took out their mobile phones to send a last text message to their families. Sudden turbulence and piercing sirens intensified the fear in their hearts. The vivid descriptions of the survivors’ painful experiences are deeply sympathetic and sad.
Shortly after this crash, there was another crash. On December 29, 2024, Korean Airlines had a drama-chasing incident. Jeju Airlines Flight 2216 flew from Bangkok, Thailand to Muan, South Korea. The crash occurred while preparing for landing. The cause of the crash was suspected to be a bird strike that caused the plane to land on its belly, then slide off the runway, collide with ground equipment, and explode. The crash killed 179 of the 181 passengers on board, with only two crew members surviving. This was the first fatal accident for Jeju Air and the worst aviation disaster in South Korea’s history.
Although these large-scale aircraft crashes are catastrophic, each accident leads to more stringent inspections and safety assurances. Each tragedy is a clear reminder of the technology and safety standards that make air travel one of the safest modes of transportation.
