A Latam flight traveling from Sydney to Chile experienced a “technical incident” that left fifty passengers slightly injured, with 13 hospitalized, and one in serious condition. The airline did not specify the exact problem but mentioned that the plane had a strong movement that affected several passengers.
Flight LA 800 began descending towards Auckland International Airport when it was only an hour away from its destination. The plane landed safely, and all passengers were attended to. Latam issued a statement confirming the technical issue and explaining that a new flight has been scheduled for affected passengers.
Passengers described the terrifying experience, with some thrown to the roof of the plane as it rapidly lost altitude. One passenger, Priscilla Waller-Subritzky, shared her account of the chaotic moments on board, where she went into “fight mode” to help others. Another passenger recounted feeling like he was in a horror movie as the plane suddenly dropped and people started screaming.
Latam expressed regret for the incident and apologized for the inconvenience caused. The airline is providing support to affected passengers and ensuring their accommodation and food needs are taken care of. The investigation into the cause of the technical problem is ongoing.