LATAM Jet Halts Takeoff After Miscommunication in Foggy Sao Paulo Runway
A LATAM Airlines flight in Sao Paulo aborted its takeoff when the crew accelerated despite being told to wait for two other aircraft, prompting a last-minute brake application.
On a fog-shrouded runway in Sao Paulo, Brazil, a LATAM Airlines passenger jet was cleared to hold while two other flights—operated by American Airlines and Delta Air Lines—were scheduled to cross. Despite this instruction, the LATAM crew accelerated, prompting a frantic repeat call from air traffic control. Reacting to the second warning, the pilot applied full brakes, aborting the takeoff to allow the other aircraft to proceed.
The incident unfolded amid reduced visibility that had already heightened tension at the control tower. LATAM released a statement saying the aborted takeoff was carried out safely and that it is in contact with officials to investigate the miscommunication. No injuries were reported, and the runway was cleared after the maneuver.
Why it matters
The event highlights how poor visibility and communication errors can jeopardize safety in busy airports.
In this story
