Authorities will launch a full-scale investigation next Monday, Feb. 3, into the fire that broke out on board an Air Busan aircraft at Gimhae International Airport on Tuesday. Officials have ruled out terrorism and decided against draining the aircraft’s roughly 16,000 kilograms of jet fuel, citing no immediate risk.
The Airbus A321 was preparing to depart for Hong Kong when flames erupted in the rear cabin at 10:15 p.m. All 176 people on board -- 169 passengers, six crew members, and one mechanic -- evacuated via emergency slides. Seven passengers sustained minor injuries. Firefighters extinguished the blaze by 11:31 p.m.
A joint investigation team of about 20 experts from the Transport Ministry’s Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Committee, the National Forensic Service, the Korea Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the National Fire Agency is leading the probe. The French Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety, which oversees Airbus-related incidents, is also involved.
Investigators conducted a preliminary assessment on Friday, examining fire damage and securing hazardous materials. They suspect the fire may have started in an overhead storage compartment at the rear of the cabin, based on witness reports and a 119 emergency call. However, all possible causes remain under review.
On-site forensic work will begin Feb. 3, with experts collecting and analyzing debris. Only six or seven specialists trained in hazardous materials will enter the cabin, while others will handle evidence sorting. Authorities have also secured 3D imaging of the aircraft and will cover it with a tent to protect it from forecast rain.
Police are monitoring the probe and may open a separate investigation into potential airline negligence, including compliance with baggage regulations and possible electrical faults.
Government investigators who arrived on Jan. 29, the day after the incident, found no signs of terrorism or prohibited hazardous materials. The aircraft’s wings and engines were undamaged. It remains unclear whether data from the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder has been retrieved.
mjh@heraldcorp.com
