The plane’s black box has been recovered and will provide crucial data to investigators seeking to determine the events leading up to the crash.

In response to the tragedy, the South Korean government has declared a seven-day period of mourning. Families of the victims, many of whom had gathered at Muan International Airport, have been informed of the devastating outcome.

The runway will remain closed until New Year’s Day.

Authorities reported that the two surviving crew members suffered “moderate to severe” injuries. Among the deceased passengers, the youngest was just three years old, while the oldest was 78. Five children under the age of 10 were on board the flight.

While investigators are considering bird strikes or weather conditions as potential causes of the crash, the exact reason has yet to be determined.