Black boxes retrieved from Air Busan plane fire

Seoul

South Korean authorities retrieved the black boxes from an Air Busan passenger plane that caught fire earlier this week at Gimhae International Airport in Busan. The investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, with a French team of investigators expected to join the probe.

On Tuesday, the Airbus plane, bound for Hong Kong, caught fire before takeoff, prompting the evacuation of all 176 people on board using an escape slide. While seven passengers suffered minor injuries, no fatalities were reported.

The exact cause of the blaze remains unclear, though some speculated that it could have been caused by a portable battery or items stored in an overhead bin. South Korea’s aviation and railway accident investigation board, along with local police, firefighting agencies, and the National Forensic Service, are collaborating on the investigation. They are working to ensure safety during the probe, as the plane was carrying 35,000 pounds of fuel.

The French team will participate in the investigation as required by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), due to France being the manufacturer of the aircraft.

In the aftermath of similar incidents, including a January fire caused by a passenger's portable battery, there are growing calls for stricter carry-on luggage regulations. Investigators will also review the airline's safety procedures and regulations to determine potential responsibilities.

The incident follows last month’s deadly crash of a Jeju Air plane, marking a concerning period for South Korean aviation.