A Boeing 787 Dreamliner
At least 60 people were injured during a LATAM Airlines flight by what officials termed a “strong movement” as the aircraft was en route from Sydney. Australia, to Auckland, New Zealand.
LATAM Airlines said in a statement that there had been a “technical event during the flight which caused a strong movement.” It did not provide further elaboration, however.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was met by dozens of paramedics and emergency vehicles when it touched down at Auckland Airport.
LATAM Flight 800 had left the gate at Sydney Airport at 11:23 a.m. local time, 12 minutes earlier than scheduled. It was wheels up at 11:44 a.m., one minute early. The 787-9 landed at Auckland Airport at 4:26 p.m. local time, four minutes later than scheduled, and was at the gate at 4:34 p.m., one minute early.
Local authorities said that 50 people were treated at the scene for less severe injuries. Ten passengers and three crew members were taken to hospital, however.
One passenger told New Zealand broadcaster RNZ that “people flew through the cabin” and “got pretty injured.”
Passengers who had been on the flight said on social media that a number of passengers had not been wearing their seatbelts when the incident, which could possibly be attributed to severe turbulence, took place.
Regardless of the cause, the story of Flight 800 is a good reason for air passengers to remember to keep their seat belts fastened at all times during a flight.
LATAM later issued a statement apologizing for the situation.
“LATAM regrets the inconvenience and injury this situation may have caused its passengers, and reiterates its commitment to safety as a priority within the framework of its operational standards,” the airline said.
(Photo: Accura Media Group)
All Rights Reserved Travel