A passenger airliner flying between Antofagasta and Santiago was struck by lightning mid-air, a bright flash briefly lighting up the cabin as those on board heard a loud bang, infohub.kz reports.
The incident was captured on video by one of the passengers. The footage shows the cabin suddenly flooded with blinding light, followed by a muffled bang. Frightened people scream, and a moment later nervous laughter can be heard in the cabin.
Despite the alarming footage, the flight ended safely: the aircraft landed normally at Santiago International Airport and all passengers were able to disembark.
The airline confirmed what happened and explained why such situations do not necessarily pose a threat to those on board. "This is a weather phenomenon for which aircraft are designed and certified. They are equipped with systems that allow electrical discharge to be safely dissipated," the carrier said in a statement.
As the publication notes, lightning strikes on passenger planes are not an exceptional occurrence. Aircraft are designed with protection against electrical discharges: the current travels mainly along the outer surface of the fuselage, and special devices on the wings and tail help safely divert the electricity.
After such incidents, planes are inspected for damage to their structure and electronic systems. Serious consequences from lightning strikes are rare, since modern aircraft are specifically designed with such risks in mind.