Two separate incidents at different airports in Brazil have caused significant concern among passengers and aviation authorities. At São Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport, a sudden fire in the baggage claim area triggered panic, while in another part of the country, an Airbus A320 operated by LATAM Airlines caught fire on the runway just before takeoff. Thanks to swift intervention, no injuries occurred in either case.
Fire in the Baggage Area at Guarulhos Airport: Terminal Evacuated
A sudden fire in the baggage claim section of Guarulhos Airport produced thick smoke within minutes. In footage that quickly spread across the terminal, passengers and staff were seen heading towards emergency exits as security teams moved swiftly to clear the area.
During the incident, boarding was underway for LATAM’s Porto Alegre flight (LA3418). Smoke alarms were triggered, activating the airport’s emergency protocols and immediately halting the boarding process. All passengers and crew were safely evacuated. Authorities confirmed that no one was injured.
In a Separate Incident, LATAM Airbus A320 Caught Fire on the Runway
In a second incident at another Brazilian airport, a LATAM Airbus A320 preparing for takeoff saw flames rise from beneath one of its wings. The cabin quickly filled with smoke, prompting the crew to issue an emergency evacuation order.
All 180 passengers were rapidly moved away from the aircraft using inflatable slides. As passengers ran towards a safe area on the runway, emergency teams intervened to extinguish the fire. Airport management confirmed that all passengers escaped without injury.
Experts: “The crew’s quick response prevented a potential disaster”
Aviation experts emphasise that the cabin crew’s calm attitude and flawless execution of emergency evacuation procedures were particularly critical in the A320 incident. According to experts, their rapid reaction prevented a potential tragedy.
While official investigations into both incidents are ongoing, LATAM Airlines stated that its operations are continuing safely.
