LATAM flight triggers airport security sweep after passenger claims to carry explosives

A passenger on LATAM flight 745 to Guarulhos, Brazil, was detained at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez Airport after claiming to be carrying explosive devices. Chile’s Policía de Investigaciones (PDI) conducted a full sweep of the aircraft and terminal, with no explosives found.

Investigators confirmed the claim was false and the individual was taken into custody at the terminal following the security sweep. The DGAC announced that the threat was ruled out, and the passenger was detained.

The incident is described as part of a recurring wave of false bomb threats at Chilean airports in 2026, affecting LATAM and Sky Airlines flights with similar declarations reported in May and June. Security disruptions have led to delays and detentions in prior cases.

Security procedures were activated immediately at Arturo Merino Benítez, with PDI officers inspecting the plane and surrounding gate area. After the review found no devices, normal operations at the airport resumed.

Authorities indicated that a formal detention review would follow under Chilean criminal procedure, with further details on the suspect’s identity and charges to be released by the public prosecutor and PDI. It remained unclear whether LATAM would pursue a formal complaint in this instance.