Korean Air Flight 189 left Seoul on Saturday but suffered a major problem mid-air that left 17 people injured. According to flight tracker data, the plane dropped 25,000 feet and flew in circles several times before diverting back to Seoul. The unexpected situation occurred after the flight reached the southern tip of the Korean peninsula and was en route to Taichung, Taiwan. The data revealed that the Boeing 737 MAX 8 made a sudden steep descent of about 4.75 miles, injuring 17 of its 125 passengers when its pressurization system failed.
Confirming the incident, Korean Air conveyed its apology to the affected passengers and said it is fully cooperating with relevant authorities to investigate the problems. Fox Business [1] emphasized in its report that all the 17 passengers that ended up requiring medical treatment have been treated and discharged with no severe injuries.
Additionally, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport confirmed that 15 passengers hyperventilated and suffered eardrum pain during the sudden drop. The affected passengers have been given accommodation, meals, and other arrangements to help ease their situation, according to a Korea Air representative.
“Our commitment to the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remains unchanged,” the representative added. “We apologize to all affected by this incident.”