Emergency Response Unfolds After In-Flight Incident on Sydney to Auckland Flight

An emergency response is underway at Auckland International Airport following an in-flight incident on LATAM Airlines flight LA800 from Sydney to Auckland on Tuesday. The incident, described as a ‘technical problem,’ resulted in a sudden movement in the air, leading to injuries among passengers and cabin crew.

About 50 individuals received medical assessment at the scene, with 13 individuals later transferred to Middlemore Hospital for further treatment.

LATAM Airlines, the Chilean carrier operating the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, attributed the incident to a technical issue causing a ‘strong movement’ during the flight. The airline expressed regret for the inconvenience and injuries caused to passengers, emphasizing safety as a top priority.

Meanwhile, in a separate event, United Airlines flight UA830 traveling from Sydney to San Francisco had to turn back after detecting a leak onboard. The flight safely returned to Sydney with no reported injuries.

The response from Hato Hone St John ambulance service at Auckland Airport involved treating around 50 individuals, with conflicting reports on the number of hospitalizations. While LATAM Airlines indicated 10 individuals were taken to Middlemore Hospital, the Counties Manukau District Health Board reported a different figure of six patients with mild to moderate injuries.

Despite the varying accounts, emergency services including ambulances and support vehicles swiftly responded to the incident. LATAM Airlines has since arranged for a new flight, LA1130, to accommodate affected passengers traveling to Santiago.

Authorities are yet to confirm the nationality of passengers onboard during the incident and any Australian involvement. Efforts are being made to assist those affected, with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade being contacted for further insights.

As the situation unfolds, SBS News continues to monitor and report on developments regarding the in-flight emergency and the subsequent response at Auckland International Airport.