A Korean Air plane was forced to make an emergency U-turn and landing after a significant drop of over 25,000 feet due to a pressurization system fault. The incident occurred on June 22, 2024, when flight KE189 departed from Seoul’s Incheon International Airport (ICN) at approximately 16:45 local time, en route to Taichung International Airport (RMQ) in Taiwan.
About 50 minutes into the flight, the Boeing 737 Max 8 began a rapid descent, dropping 26,900 feet in around 15 minutes. The aircraft was flying over Jeju Island when the message “pressure system (pressure control function of the aircraft) abnormality” was displayed, as reported by FL360aero.
The sudden descent caused several passengers to experience hyperventilation and ear pain, leading to the deployment of oxygen masks in the cabin. According to The Taipei Times, children on board were crying during the dramatic drop. One passenger recounted that she sensed something was wrong as the aircraft appeared to be hovering and flight attendants remained seated.
Upon the emergency landing in Taichung, Taiwan, 17 passengers were evaluated at medical facilities and subsequently discharged without severe injuries.
Korean Air issued an apology to all affected by the incident, stating, “We are fully cooperating with all relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. We have provided comprehensive support to affected passengers, including accommodation, meals, and transportation arrangements.” The flight resumed on the morning of June 23 with a different aircraft, approximately 19 hours after the initial departure.
Passengers expressed their fear and hesitation to fly again soon after the harrowing experience. A Korean Air spokesperson confirmed that the airline is conducting a thorough investigation to identify the cause of the pressurization system malfunction and address any maintenance issues before the aircraft returns to service.
This incident adds to the mounting pressure on Boeing, the manufacturer of the malfunctioning aircraft, following a series of problems with their planes.