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Photo: Eastar Jet |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] It has been revealed that Eastar Jet falsified inspection records, claiming that internal and external checks had been completed, despite carrying out inadequate safety and security inspections.
According to an investigation requested by Kim Eun-hye, a member of the ruling People Power Party, into Eastar Jet's safety and security check violations, Eastar Jet mechanics performed only a partial inspection of the right side of the aircraft but falsely stated in the security checklist that the checks had been completed. Kim is also the ruling party’s secretary of the National Assembly's "12/29 Passenger Plane Disaster Truth-Seeking and Victim Compensation Special Committee."
Previously, on February 12, Eastar Jet cabin crew members opened the emergency door of an aircraft at Cheongju Airport and climbed onto the wing to take photos. They then boarded the plane, and the aircraft soon departed for its destination.
In response, Kim requested the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport to investigate the safety and security checks of the aircraft in question, including any violations of security laws. The ministry conducted on-site inspections and investigations of relevant personnel.
The investigation revealed that while the cabin manager conducted internal checks, the cabin crew members took photos on the wing of the aircraft. The mechanic, who was responsible for checking the exterior, only inspected the right side of the aircraft, which was confirmed through closed-circuit television (CCTV). However, the aircraft's security checklist falsely stated that both internal and external inspections had been completed.
According to the Aviation Security Act, Article 14, airlines are required to conduct internal and external security checks on their aircraft before every flight. These checks are an essential procedure to prevent terrorism, ensuring there are no signs of external access to the aircraft, verifying that the doors are properly secured, and checking for dangerous items such as knives or explosives onboard.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
