The investigators analyzing the destroyed Boeing 737-800’s engines identified DNA traces from Baikal teals as part of their probe into last month’s Jeju Air crash. Muan airport witnessed an emergency landing that ended with a fatal 179-person mortality count before becoming the worst aviation accident to ever occur inside South Korean territory on December 29.
Central to the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board’s report released on Monday is confirmation that bird traces were present despite omitting direct evidence linking bird impacts with engine malfunction. Investigators must explain how both cockpit voice and flight recorders abruptly lost communication shortly before the crisis occurred.
A Jeju Air flight executed a belly landing resulting in an overshot runway which destroyed navigation equipment situated on the embankment. A destructive fire and explosion released debris which spread to distances exceeding 200 meters. According to expert analysis the strengthened embankment resulted in numerous fatalities from the accident. 
The flight crew sighted a bird swarm on the runway before triggering the “Mayday” safety alert and the crash occurred shortly afterward. The exact cause remains under investigation as testing proceeds on engine components and flight data and embankment probes.
The South Korean government has distributed its investigation outcomes to international aerobatic authorities and the aircraft and engine manufacturers. The global aviation guidelines mandate that investigators will provide a final report within one year.
Flight operation safety experts demand enhanced wildlife control programs near airports because of this fatal incident.
