Unsettling In-Flight Incident on LATAM Airlines 800 from Sydney to Auckland: Pilot Loses Control, Dozens Injured
The recent harrowing experience aboard LATAM Airlines flight 800 from Sydney to Auckland has left passengers shaken, as they recount an unexpected drop that threw them around the cabin, resulting in injuries for numerous travelers. This incident marks another challenging event for embattled aircraft manufacturer Boeing, currently facing a multitude of quality and safety concerns.
Passenger Brian Jokat described the terrifying moment during his interview with News Finder’s Erin Burnett, as the plane “dropped suddenly to the effect of 500 feet.” He reported seeing fellow passengers momentarily adhered to the roof of the aircraft before falling to the floor. Jokat further explained that the pilot, upon landing in Auckland, addressed the passengers and admitted to experiencing a loss of control due to failing gauges.
The aircraft involved in this incident was a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, according to flight tracking data from FlightAware. LATAM acknowledged the “technical event” and confirmed a safe landing in Auckland. Boeing, too, has pledged support for their customer and is currently investigating the matter further.
Approximately 50 people suffered injuries during this event, with one passenger reportedly in serious condition. The unexpected turbulence caused a scene of panic among the passengers as they braced for potential danger.
In recent years, Boeing has faced intense criticism over their handling of quality and safety issues within their aircraft. Notably, the company’s 737 Max jets were involved in two fatal crashes due to design flaws, leading to numerous halted deliveries and quality control concerns. Additionally, a door plug detached from a new 737 Max operated by Alaska Airlines in January, resulting in an extensive hole in the aircraft’s side.
Furthermore, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified safety issues with engine anti-ice systems on both the 737 Max and larger 787 Dreamliner models. Despite these concerns, the FAA has permitted both aircraft to continue flying while working through the standard process for airworthiness directives, indicating a belief that these issues do not warrant an immediate stoppage of flights.
The FAA expects Boeing to present a detailed plan to rectify the identified quality concerns within 90 days. Boeing has reportedly been working on addressing these issues since they were brought to light.
This latest incident adds to the mounting pressures on Boeing to prioritize safety and quality over financial gains, as they navigate through these trying times. News Finder’s Pete Muntean, Greg Wallace, and Chris Isidore contributed reporting to this article.
