In response to the devastating December 2023 air crash that claimed 179 lives, South Korea has mandated the installation of bird detection cameras and thermal imaging radars across all airports. The directive, set for implementation in 2026, aims to prevent similar tragedies caused by bird strikes, which have been identified as a contributing factor in the fatal accident.
On December 29, 2023, a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 took off from Bangkok, Thailand, en route to Muan International Airport in southwestern South Korea. As the aircraft approached its destination, air traffic control alerted the pilots about increased bird activity near the airport.
Two minutes later, at 08:59 local time, the pilot reported a bird strike and issued a mayday signal. In an attempt to land from the opposite direction, the aircraft belly-landed without deploying its landing gear. It overran the runway and crashed into a concrete structure, leading to a catastrophic explosion.
The disaster, South Korea’s deadliest aviation accident, left only two survivors—both cabin crew members. Investigators found evidence of a bird strike on both engines, including feathers and blood stains, suggesting that bird ingestion may have played a significant role in the accident. However, experts also pointed to the presence of the concrete structure at the end of the runway as a major factor that exacerbated the crash’s impact.
Following a nationwide review of airport safety, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport announced a series of measures aimed at enhancing aviation security. One of the most significant changes is the mandatory installation of bird detection radars and thermal imaging cameras at all airports.
“Bird detection radars will be installed at all airports to enhance early detection of distant birds and improve response capabilities for aircraft,” the ministry stated on Thursday.
These radars are designed to detect the size and movement patterns of birds, relaying real-time information to air traffic controllers. The installation of thermal imaging cameras will further improve bird detection capabilities, especially in low-visibility conditions such as nighttime or fog.
Currently, only four airports in South Korea have thermal imaging cameras, and it remains unclear whether any of them have bird detection radars in place. Under the new regulations, every airport must be equipped with at least one thermal imaging camera by 2026.
Additionally, the government is enforcing stricter land-use regulations around airports. Sites that attract birds, such as garbage dumps, will need to be relocated to minimize the risk of bird strikes.
In addition to bird detection measures, South Korea is upgrading runway safety features at seven airports. The December crash revealed that the design of some runways and surrounding areas may contribute to severe accidents. Experts believe that the absence of the concrete structure at the end of the Muan International Airport runway could have reduced the number of casualties in the crash.
By redesigning runway safety areas, authorities aim to prevent aircraft from colliding with hazardous structures in the event of an emergency landing. These changes align with global aviation safety recommendations, emphasizing the importance of clear, unobstructed zones around runways.
Bird strikes pose a significant threat to aviation safety worldwide. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), bird strikes cause millions of dollars in damages annually and have led to several fatal accidents. Birds can be ingested into aircraft engines, causing engine failure and forcing pilots to make emergency landings.
One of the most well-known bird strike incidents was the “Miracle on the Hudson” in 2009, when a US Airways Airbus A320 struck a flock of geese shortly after takeoff. Both engines failed, forcing Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger to make an emergency landing in the Hudson River. Fortunately, all passengers and crew survived.
South Korea’s decision to implement advanced bird detection systems follows a growing trend of airports worldwide investing in technology to mitigate the risks of bird strikes. Many major international airports already use radar, drones, and other deterrent systems to monitor and reduce bird activity near runways.
The tragic crash in December 2023 underscored the urgent need for improved aviation safety measures in South Korea. By mandating bird detection radars, thermal imaging cameras, and stricter land-use policies, the government aims to enhance flight safety and prevent similar disasters.
While the full investigation into the crash is still ongoing, these proactive measures reflect a commitment to strengthening aviation security and ensuring that airports are better equipped to handle bird-related risks in the future.
