Boeing is currently investigating another midair incident involving one of its planes, the 787-9 Dreamliner. Dozens of passengers on a Latam Airlines flight were injured today when the plane experienced a sudden jolt midair while en route from Sydney, Australia to Auckland, New Zealand. Reports from passengers indicate a chaotic scene inside the cabin, with individuals being thrown around and even blood visible on the ceiling.
While initial descriptions point to a severe turbulence incident, the exact cause remains unclear. Latam Airlines referred to the event as a 'technical event' that resulted in a significant movement of the aircraft, leaving room for speculation about potential issues in the cockpit such as flight controls or autopilot malfunctions.
Although this incident involves a Boeing 787 and not the troubled 737 Max model, Boeing has committed to assisting with the investigation and gathering more information. The flight, which was bound for Santiago, Chile, was diverted to Auckland, where 50 individuals received medical treatment, with 12 being hospitalized and one reported in serious condition.
Turbulence, whether caused by weather phenomena or clear air turbulence, remains a significant safety concern for airlines. While advancements in turbulence forecasting have been made, the National Transportation Safety Board identifies turbulence as the leading cause of injuries on commercial flights in the United States.
Passengers are reminded of the importance of keeping their seatbelts fastened, especially during cruising altitudes like the incident's 41,000 feet. This serves as a crucial safety measure to prevent injuries during unexpected turbulence events that can occur without warning.
As investigations into the incident are underway, authorities such as the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority and relevant safety agencies are expected to provide further insights. While the exact nature of the incident is yet to be determined, the focus remains on passenger safety and adherence to safety protocols while onboard commercial flights.
