Shocking Close Call at São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport as LATAM A320 Catches Fire on the Tarmac, One Hundred Eighty Passengers Miraculously Evacuate in Fiery Catastrophe

Published on December 6, 2025

On December 4, 2025, a serious incident unfolded at São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) when a LATAM Airbus A320 was evacuated after fire broke out in a piece of ground handling equipment. The fire, originating in the baggage loading conveyor belt, forced 180 passengers and crew to quickly evacuate the aircraft, which was on the tarmac preparing for its flight.

Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated with no injuries reported. The fire was contained by emergency responders, and airport operations resumed after a brief disruption. Investigations have already begun into the cause of the fire, while airport authorities, including Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), are working closely with LATAM Airlines to ensure all safety protocols were followed.

The Incident at Guarulhos Airport

At approximately 10:45 a.m. local time, LATAM flight LA3418 was preparing for departure from Guarulhos Airport to Rio de Janeiro when ground crew detected smoke emanating from the baggage loader equipment used to load luggage into the aircraft’s hold. The fire spread quickly, triggering the evacuation of the Airbus A320.

LATAM’s spokesperson confirmed that the incident was not related to any technical issue with the aircraft itself, but rather to a malfunction in the ground handling equipment. Emergency crews responded promptly, using firefighting equipment to extinguish the blaze and secure the area. Affected passengers were immediately deplaned through the boarding bridge and emergency slides. There were no reports of injuries, and all passengers were safely escorted into the terminal.

The flight was delayed, but affected passengers were rebooked on subsequent flights. LATAM’s response was praised for its quick and efficient handling of the situation, ensuring no further harm came to those on board.

Safety Measures and Responses

In the aftermath of the incident, Guarulhos Airport has reassured travelers that normal operations have resumed. However, authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the fire, particularly focusing on the safety and maintenance of the ground equipment involved. Investigators from Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) and Brazilian Fire Department are working together to assess whether any procedural or equipment failure led to the ignition.

LATAM Airlines has also promised to cooperate fully with the investigation. The airline emphasized that it adheres to strict safety protocols and is committed to the safety of its passengers. The airline’s public statement reassured the traveling public that incidents like these, while unfortunate, are taken very seriously. The A320 aircraft in question will undergo a thorough inspection to ensure that no other safety concerns arise.

What Could Happen Next: Potential Safety and Regulatory Changes

The LATAM A320 fire incident at Guarulhos Airport is now under close scrutiny, and the coming days may see new safety measures introduced for ground operations across Brazilian airports. This event brings into sharp focus the need for consistent safety checks and operational standards for ground‑handling equipment, which are often overlooked in comparison to aircraft maintenance.

Future developments may include:

• Stricter ground equipment safety checks: With the increasing use of third‑party ground handling companies, there could be a reassessment of safety protocols regarding the equipment used during flight preparation.
• Enhanced training for ground crew: Airlines and ground handlers may enhance their training programs for rapid response to incidents involving ground equipment.
• Updated safety protocols for airports: Given the prominence of Guarulhos International as a hub for international travel, it’s likely that Brazil’s aviation regulatory bodies, such as ANAC, will issue updated guidelines to improve safety and response times for such incidents.

As for LATAM, the airline will likely review its ground‑handling operations to ensure that all equipment is properly maintained and that the incident does not repeat. Furthermore, the airline might also conduct an internal review of how its crew and ground staff handled the situation to highlight best practices moving forward.

Why This Incident Matters for Travelers

While the incident has been resolved without injuries, it raises important questions about the safety of ground operations at busy international airports. For travelers, incidents like these serve as a reminder of the crucial role airport and airline safety protocols play in ensuring that flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation.

Safety Protocols Work, But Vigilance is Key

The LATAM flight evacuation underscores the importance of swift, well-practiced evacuation protocols. Thanks to timely action from both LATAM’s crew and airport emergency services, the situation was contained quickly and effectively. Passengers were not exposed to further danger, and the swift response likely prevented what could have been a far more serious outcome.

However, it also emphasizes the need for constant vigilance. With thousands of aircraft movements every day, the risks associated with ground operations are not to be overlooked. Airports and airlines must continue to update their safety protocols and maintain stringent equipment standards to keep passengers safe at every stage of their journey.

What Travelers Should Know

With investigations still ongoing, travelers should stay informed about any future delays or incidents that may arise at Guarulhos Airport in the aftermath of this event. For those planning to fly LATAM, it’s advisable to check for any updated flight schedules or safety notifications. Travelers should also expect potential updates in aviation regulations that will enhance safety across Brazilian airports.

Meanwhile, LATAM Airlines remains committed to the safety and comfort of its passengers, working to prevent any further disruptions and ensuring a smooth travel experience for future flights.

This incident serves as a timely reminder of the importance of safety in all areas of air travel—from the aircraft itself to the ground operations that support it.