Breaking News / TransAsia Airways President Lin Hsiao-hsin Makes First Public Appearance: 'Every Second of the Past 24 Hours Has Been Agonizing'

Reported by Chen Jui-chung and You  Ru / Taipei

A plane crash occurred in Penghu on the 23rd, resulting in 48 deaths and 15 injuries. All four crew members on board lost their lives. TransAsia Group President Lin Hsiao-hsin made his first public appearance earlier today, holding a press conference at six o'clock. He bowed three times and observed a minute of silence to express deep sorrow. Lin said the past 24 hours had been an ordeal, and he continuously pondered how he would respond if he were in the victims’ shoes.


▲ Lin Hsiao-hsin, President of TransAsia Group, wore a black ribbon on his chest as he led his team in a moment of silence and apology. (Photo / Reporter Chen Jui-chung)

It has been 20 hours since the TransAsia Airways crash in Penghu. The airline held another press conference at 6 p.m., during which Group President Lin Hsiao-hsin made his first public appearance. In a prepared statement, he expressed the deepest apologies on behalf of all management. With tears in his eyes, he bowed three times and led a minute of silence. Lin said every moment of the past 24 hours had been agonizing. He assured that all TransAsia staff are fully committed to handling the aftermath and seeking public understanding. He also reflected continuously on how he would feel if the victims were his own brothers or friends. Moving forward, the entire group will take responsibility, including mourning the deceased, supporting families, and managing follow-up matters.

It is understood that TransAsia Chairman Lin Ming-wei is on his way back from the United States and will head directly to Magong, Penghu tomorrow morning to deal with the aftermath. All upcoming public events by TransAsia Airways have also been suspended.