United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Strange blunder may have caused LATAM midair plunge
The frightening midair plunge by a LATAM Airlines flight this week may have been caused by a flight attendant’s carelessness.
The Wall Street Journal reports the flight attendant may have inadvertently pressed a switch on the pilot’s seat.
This activated a motorized function which pushed the seat into the controls causing the plane to nose dive.
This theory comes from a US source who has been briefed on the investigation, the WSJ says.
The pilot was able to resume control and the Dreamliner jet landed safely.
However, the abrupt plunge caused dozens of injuries to passengers and crew.
Some were thrown into the cabin ceiling
The airline hasn’t yet responded to the report.
LATAM earlier said it ‘was a technical event during the flight which caused a strong movement.’
It said it wouldn’t comment further while the investigation is ongoing.
Boeing is assisting New Zealand, Australian and Chilean aviation officials with the investigation.
The black boxes are currently being analyzed by the New Zealand Transport Accident Investigation Commission.
Related News Stories:
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
James Jin: Didatravel’s Journey from China to Global Reach and the Impact of AI on Travel
Darien Schaefer on Pensacola’s Evolution: From Small Town to Global Destination
Florida Tourism’s Next Frontier: Dana Young on Expanding Beyond the Classics
Patrick Harrison on Tampa Bay Tourism’s Resilience and Marketing Strategy
Bubba O’Keefe on Clarksdale’s Vibrant Music Scene
Commemorating Elvis and Embracing Tupelo’s Culture with Jennie Bradford Curlee
Craig Ray and the Expansion of the Blues Trail
Presenting Mississippi’s Cultural Trails with Katie Coats
Robert Terrell: A Journey Through BB King’s Influence
Rochelle Hicks: Celebrating Mississippi’s Musical Legacy
Exploring Jacksonville with Katie Mitura: The Flip Side of Florida
Dozens fall ill in P&O Cruises ship outbreak
Turkish Airlines flight in emergency landing after pilot dies
Boy falls to death on cruise ship
Unexpected wave rocks cruise ship
Woman dies after going overboard in English Channel