Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 Returns to Seoul Due to Landing Gear Problem

A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 was forced to return to Seoul’s Gimpo International Airport on Monday morning after a landing gear issue was detected shortly after takeoff. This incident occurred just a day after a fatal crash involving another Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air.
Details of the Incident
Flight 7C101, bound for Jeju Island, departed from Gimpo Airport at 6:37 am but returned to the airport at 7:25 am. According to Jeju Air, a warning signal about the landing gear appeared on the aircraft’s monitoring system shortly after takeoff.
“At 6:57 am, the captain communicated with ground control and implemented additional measures. While the landing gear returned to normal operation, it was decided to return for a thorough inspection,” explained Song Kyung-hoon, Jeju Air’s management support head.
Immediate Safety Measures
In light of this incident, South Korean aviation authorities have announced a special inspection of all 101 Boeing 737-800 aircraft operating in the country.
Joo Jong-wan, head of the aviation policy bureau at the South Korean transport ministry, stated:
“We are reviewing plans to conduct a special inspection on B737-800 aircraft and will implement rigorous aviation safety inspections in response to these incidents.”
Sunday's Fatal Jeju Air Crash
The landing gear problem follows a fatal crash on Sunday involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 near Muan Airport. The aircraft, traveling from Thailand to South Korea, reportedly experienced a landing gear malfunction, leading to a crash and fire. Tragically, all passengers lost their lives, except for two cabin crew members who were rescued from the debris.
Impact on Passengers and Fleet
Passenger Concerns: Following Monday’s incident, 21 passengers declined alternative flights to Jeju, citing safety concerns.
Jeju Air Fleet: The airline operates 41 aircraft, including 39 Boeing 737-800 models, which are now under scrutiny.
What Happens Next?
South Korean authorities, in collaboration with US investigators and possibly Boeing representatives, will conduct a thorough investigation into the crash and the latest landing gear issue.
The government is committed to enhancing aviation safety measures to prevent future incidents, including detailed inspections of all Boeing 737-800 aircraft in operation.
Why This Matters
The recent incidents involving Jeju Air raise serious questions about the safety of Boeing 737-800 planes, one of the most widely used aircraft models. Special inspections and investigations aim to restore public confidence in aviation safety.