Thirty passengers were injured after a flight from Madrid to Uruguay was hit by strong turbulence and had to make an emergency landing in Brazil, according to Spanish airline Air Europa. The incident occurred on flight UX045 bound for Montevideo, which was diverted to Natal airport in Brazil due to the turbulence.
The aircraft involved was a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, capable of carrying up to 339 passengers. Passengers described a sudden drop of 400 meters at a speed of 1,000 kilometers per hour, causing chaos inside the plane. Some passengers were thrown from their seats, hitting the roof and sustaining injuries.
Passengers reported scenes of people suspended in the air before falling back down as the plane stabilized. Injuries included fractures and injuries to arms, faces, and legs, with approximately 30 people affected. Despite the terrifying experience, all passengers survived the ordeal.
Air Europa arranged for another plane to pick up the stranded passengers in Brazil and continue their journey to Uruguay. Those in need of medical attention were treated at Natal International Airport before being transferred to Montevideo.
The incident adds to the recent scrutiny faced by Boeing, the manufacturer of the Dreamliner aircraft. While there is no evidence linking the injuries to a safety malfunction, Boeing has been under fire for alleged safety issues raised by whistleblowers.
Recent reports have highlighted concerns about the manufacturing process of Boeing's planes, with claims of unsafe practices that could have serious consequences. The FAA and Boeing have been investigating these allegations, leading to a halt in Dreamliner deliveries until changes were implemented.
Multiple whistleblowers have come forward with complaints against Boeing, with ongoing investigations by regulatory authorities. The potential for criminal charges against Boeing has been mentioned due to persistent quality and safety failures within the company.
Despite the challenges faced, Air Europa expressed regret over the incident and provided support to the affected passengers. The airline ensured that passengers were safely transported to their final destination in Uruguay, where they arrived the following morning.
