The Taiwan Transportation Safety Board (TTSB) confirmed Thursday night that a China Airlines flight mistakenly landed on the wrong runway at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, earlier that evening.
The incident came to light after Taiwanese aerospace YouTuber and former pilot James Wang (王天傑) disclosed details during a livestream. Wang revealed that China Airlines flight CI186, arriving from Taoyuan International Airport, touched down on an incorrect runway upon arrival in Busan.
According to TTSB chief investigator Lin Pei-da (林沛達), the airline voluntarily reported the incident. However, since the event occurred within South Korean territory, jurisdiction for the investigation lies with Korean authorities in accordance with international aviation standards.
The TTSB has reached out to its South Korean counterpart, offering support in the ongoing inquiry. Should Korean authorities decide not to pursue a formal investigation, the TTSB is prepared to launch its own.
China Airlines acknowledged the error, stating that one of its flights did not comply with air traffic control instructions in Busan. The carrier has initiated an internal probe to determine the cause.
The disruption led to a delay of China Airlines flight CI187’s return trip from Busan to Taiwan, scheduled for Friday, due to the airport’s curfew. The airline assured that all affected passengers were provided accommodations, and a new cabin crew was assigned for the rescheduled flight.
