October 16, 2024

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Videos have emerged in recent days showing the damage to a LATAM Airbus A320 after it flew through hail, either amid or right next to a fierce thunderstorm. In this case, it was near a thunderstorm and even inside one, and both scenarios can be truly catastrophic. It’s truly a testament to the incredible pilots who somehow navigated their way into that storm and were able to bring the plane safely to land, despite the radar dome being demolished by what surely were huge hailstones.

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— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) October 27, 2022

The flight had started in Santiago, Chile, and was bound for Asunción, the capital of Paraguay, but due to the weather, it diverted to an airport in Brazil. After taking off again, it encountered the severe weather. There are conflicting reports about injuries, with some stories suggesting several passengers were seriously hurt, while the airline stated in a statement that no one was harmed.

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— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) October 27, 2022

The plane sustained heavy damage, with the hail almost shattering both windshields, making it extremely difficult for the pilots to see ahead. Eventually, they managed to make a successful emergency landing in Asunción. Authorities are now investigating the incident.

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— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) October 27, 2022

From thunderstorms to icy clouds, the weather poses numerous hazards to small planes. Learn about Weather Hazards here.

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— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) October 27, 2022