In a shocking incident, a LATAM Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner experienced a sudden drop during a flight from Sydney, Australia, to Auckland, New Zealand, leaving at least 50 people injured. Witnesses described a terrifying scene as passengers were reportedly bounced off the ceiling of the plane.

The New Zealand Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has taken control of the black boxes of the aircraft, including the cockpit voice recorder and flight data, to gather crucial evidence about the incident. The investigation aims to uncover the cause of the sudden drop and understand the communication between the pilots at that time.

Passenger Brian Jokat, who was on the flight, shared his harrowing experience, stating that the plane dropped abruptly, unlike any turbulence he had ever encountered. He described passengers being thrown out of their seats, hitting the roof of the plane, and being tossed down the aisles. Jokat documented the damage to the ceiling where passengers had struck and shared images of bruised and bleeding individuals.

Jokat revealed that some passengers were not wearing seatbelts during the incident. He recounted how he witnessed a fellow passenger being catapulted onto the roof of the plane. Meanwhile, other passengers were propelled upwards, hitting the ceiling before bouncing back down.

Emergency services were waiting at Auckland Airport when the flight landed, with more than 10 vehicles and paramedics standing by. Around 50 people received on-scene treatment, mostly for minor injuries. Thirteen individuals were later hospitalized for further assessment and care.

LATAM Airlines, based in Chile, expressed regret for the inconvenience and injuries caused to its passengers and emphasized its commitment to safety. The airline announced its full collaboration with the ongoing investigation, but it remains unclear whether the black boxes have been handed over to the authorities.

The TAIC is determined to uncover the truth behind the incident and shed light on the flight's trajectory before the sudden drop. By analyzing the black box data, investigators hope to gain insights into any unusual events or pilot communications that may have contributed to the incident.

As the investigation continues, passengers onboard the LATAM Airlines flight are left shaken by the traumatic experience. Authorities, along with the airline, are working diligently to ensure the well-being of those affected and to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

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