Accident Overview
On 1 July 2024 at 04:25 UTC, a Boeing 787-9 with Spanish registration EC-MTI, operated by Air Europa, was involved in an accident while en route from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (LEMD) to Carrasco International Airport (SUMU) in Montevideo, Uruguay. During the cruise phase, an inadvertent action on the flight controls occurred, resulting in injuries to several occupants who were not wearing their seat belts. The flight was subsequently diverted to Grande Natal International Airport in Brazil to provide medical assistance.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft was a Boeing 787-9 powered by two Trent 1000-D3 engines. The commander held an ATPL(A) license with IR(A) and B777/787 type ratings, valid until 30 September 2024, and had accumulated 21,500 total flight hours. The co-pilot held an ATPL(A) license with IR(A) and B777/787 type ratings, valid until 31 March 2025, with 9,500 total flight hours. The aircraft sustained damage to panels in the passenger cabin compartment. The flight was a scheduled international passenger service under IFR rules.
Investigation Progress
The Spanish Civil Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Commission (CIAIAC) is conducting the investigation. Efforts have focused on analyzing crew actions, duty times, and operator procedures. The investigation is ongoing, and a final report will be published at a later date.