AUCKLAND- On March 11, 2024, the Severe turbulence experienced during a LATAM (LA) flight from Sydney (SYD) to Auckland (AKL) in New Zealand resulted in at least 50 individuals being treated for injuries, with 12 of them hospitalized, as disclosed by the airline on Monday.
In a press release, LATAM Airlines stated that flight LA800, operated by a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, encountered a “technical event during the flight which caused a strong movement.”
LATAM Flight Turbulence Injured 50
A spokesperson from St John Ambulance New Zealand reported that “approximately 50 patients” received treatment at Auckland Airport, with most sustaining minor injuries. Medics indicated that one individual was in a more serious condition.
Passengers onboard described the flight as suddenly “dropping,” as reported by New Zealand’s public broadcaster, RNZ, noting that there was no turbulence preceding the incident.
According to their statement, the airline expressed profound regret for any inconvenience and discomfort caused by the situation.
Following the incident, seven passengers and three cabin crew members underwent medical checks at Middlemore Hospital, and fortunately, no serious injuries were reported, as stated in the release.
Although the Boeing 787-9 landed in Auckland as planned, the subsequent flight to Santiago, Chile, was canceled. The airline announced the scheduling of a new flight for Tuesday.
Concerns about the quality of Boeing-made planes have arisen in the wake of a series of technical incidents with its aircraft over the past few months.
Similar Incident
On December 6, 2023, during the journey from Perth (PER), Western Australia, to Dubai (DXB), an Emirates (EK) A380 experienced significant turbulence over the Persian Gulf, resulting in injuries to several passengers and crew members.
Flight EK421 encountered violent shaking during mid-flight, leading to at least 14 individuals receiving treatment for injuries upon the early Wednesday morning landing.
The Emirates spokesperson told Daily Mail that the flight had “briefly encountered unexpected turbulence mid-flight.
“While on board, our crew and medically-trained volunteers assessed and assisted the injured individuals, and additional medical support was provided through satellite link.
Upon landing, the flight was met by medical services, and Emirates deployed its care team to ensure comprehensive support for the injured passengers and crew.
The aircraft touched down in Dubai at approximately 4:45 a.m. local time.
A passenger, reportedly on board, shared on X/Twitter that they had experienced hitting the ceiling twice and smashing it during the turbulence.
Turbulence arises from a combination of meteorological, atmospheric, and geological elements. It is categorized into four levels: light, moderate, severe, and extreme.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News.