Passengers Describe Horrific Experience on Air Europa Flight Due to Turbulence in Brazil

Passengers on an Air Europa flight that was diverted to Natal, Brazil, following severe turbulence on Monday recounted their harrowing experience, with around 40 individuals sustaining injuries, four of whom were admitted to intensive care units.

The flight, designated as UX045 and bound for Montevideo from Madrid, encountered turbulence shortly after 2:30 a.m. local time. Witness testimonies portrayed a scene of chaos and fear, with fractures and various injuries reported among passengers, including arms, faces, and legs.

One passenger, Stevan, who was present in Natal, mentioned, "It was a pretty horrible feeling. We thought we were going to die there." Another passenger, Maximiliano, described the sudden plunge of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner carrying 325 passengers.

Air Europa explained that six individuals remained hospitalized in Natal and were receiving support from both Brazilian and Spanish ground personnel. The airline expressed deep regret over the incident and provided assistance to the affected passengers for their swift recovery.

Authorities from Rio Grande do Norte reported that four of the injured had been transferred to intensive care units out of the total 40 passengers taken to hospitals. Air Europa arranged for a replacement flight to transport passengers to Montevideo, departing after passengers were bussed from Natal to a larger airport in Recife.

The airline stated that an evaluation of the aircraft’s damages was underway. This incident follows a previous air travel tragedy involving Singapore Airlines, shedding light on turbulence risks and safety measures in the aviation industry.

Concerns have emerged within the industry regarding seat belt protocols and safety practices. International regulations like the Montreal Convention hold airlines accountable for physical injuries occurring during flights, including those resulting from turbulence, irrespective of negligence.

As scientists warn about increased turbulence linked to climate change, the aviation sector faces challenges in ensuring passenger safety amid unpredictable weather patterns. Despite advancements in weather detection technology, cases of severe turbulence like the one experienced by Air Europa passengers highlight the importance of vigilance and preparedness in air travel.