Fire Erupts Beneath Aircraft at São Paulo Airport, Passengers Safely Evacuated

A flight at São Paulo's main airport was disrupted after a fire broke out beneath an aircraft during the boarding process, leading to the rapid evacuation of all passengers. The incident occurred as a baggage cart caught fire while the plane was being loaded, just before its scheduled departure to Porto Alegre.

According to the airline LATAM, the fire started in the baggage handling vehicle positioned directly underneath the aircraft. The resulting smoke set off the airport's safety protocols, prompting an immediate response from both ground staff and cabin crew. Passengers were swiftly directed to exit the plane, utilizing both the jet bridge and emergency slides to ensure a quick and orderly evacuation.

Video footage released by Brazilian media showed flames and heavy smoke billowing from below the aircraft, though the interior of the plane reportedly remained clear of smoke during the evacuation. Witnesses described a brief moment of panic as passengers were instructed to leave the aircraft, but the evacuation was completed without injury.

Emergency response teams were promptly deployed to the scene, quickly bringing the situation under control. Authorities confirmed that none of the 169 passengers or crew members on board sustained injuries. Following the evacuation, the affected passengers were rebooked on alternative flights to their intended destination.

Airport operations were temporarily disrupted as fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze and assess any potential hazards. The cause of the fire in the baggage cart remains under investigation, with officials examining whether a technical malfunction or other factors contributed to the incident.

The airline emphasized that safety protocols were followed throughout the incident, crediting the rapid response of airport personnel for preventing injuries and minimizing risk. LATAM stated that it is cooperating fully with investigators and is reviewing its ground handling procedures to enhance safety measures.

São Paulo's airport authorities reassured travelers that the incident was contained and posed no further danger to other flights or airport operations. The airport resumed normal activity shortly after the emergency was resolved.

This event highlights the importance of stringent safety standards and preparedness at major international airports. Both airline and airport officials reinforced their commitment to passenger safety and pledged to implement any recommendations resulting from the ongoing investigation.