Improvements to defense angle equipment, crucial for airport safety, have been completed at five out of seven airports following a tragic incident involving Jeju Air at Muan Airport, which raised concerns about existing infrastructure. The Korea Airport Corporation announced that the upgrading work was finalized for airports including Gimhae and Sacheon, where two facilities each had been installed on concrete mounds. In total, nine defense angle facilities at seven airports were designated for improvement, with ongoing plans for the remaining facilities, particularly at Jeju and Muan airports, where additional consultations with bereaved families are planned before proceeding with upgrades.

Last year, the Korea Airport Corporation intended to wrap up all improvements by mid-2022 but only managed to complete works at three airports. Ongoing enhancements specifically target the safety hazards highlighted by the investigation into the Jeju Air incident, with expert reports suggesting that the lack of proper concrete mounds contributed significantly to the tragedy. The investigations assert that had the defense angle equipment not been supported by fragile structures, the outcome for passengers could have been far less severe, implying the critical need for infrastructure revisions to prevent future incidents.

As discussions continue regarding upgrades, emphasis is being placed on ensuring robust and secure structures to safeguard passengers, marking a significant shift in airport safety protocols in South Korea. The focus will now be on completing the designs for upcoming projects to mitigate risks associated with the defense angle facilities and foster a safer flying experience for all travelers.