Incident at Santiago Airport: Passenger with a Hammer Causes Panic

By Ivan PetrenkoAug 30, 2024 03:35 AMNews
Share:
Blurry silhouettes of people in a busy public space
Increased vigilance urged after airport security breach. Source: unsplash

A recent situation at Santiago International Airport in Chile has drawn significant public attention and sparked a wave of discussion on social media. A man who arrived at the airport to check in for his scheduled flight showed violent behavior, leading to panic among both passengers and staff. According to various reports, his actions were prompted by the realization that he had unknowingly purchased a counterfeit airline ticket.

Eyewitnesses indicated that the individual, carrying a hammer, began to vandalize equipment at the airline's registration counter, resulting in damage to multiple computers and monitors. This behavior led to chaos, causing people in the terminal to hastily evacuate, fearing for their safety. Airport security and airline personnel quickly intervened to contain the situation and prevent any further destruction.

Reasons Behind the Incident and Its Impact

According to local authorities, the man, who intended to travel first to Florida and then proceed to Haiti, was apprehended at the scene. Further investigation revealed that the flight ticket he had bought was never officially booked, leading to his outburst. The estimated damage from the incident amounts to approximately 20 million Chilean pesos (around £17,000), which includes the destruction of multiple computers and display screens.

Airline’s Reaction and Advice to Travelers

The airline involved extended its appreciation to its employees for their quick response and professionalism during the incident and issued an apology to passengers for the disruption. Company representatives stressed the critical need for verifying ticket authenticity and urged all travelers to be cautious when buying airline tickets from third-party vendors.

This incident highlights the vital importance of strict security measures in international airports. The event serves as a reminder of the need for heightened alertness from both passengers and airport personnel. Being prepared and capable of rapid response can play a crucial role in minimizing risks and preventing similar occurrences in the future.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

Internet on a Cruise: How to Avoid Huge Bills for Connectivity

Aug 6, 2025 09:14 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM
More News
Sale tags symbolising limited-time travel discounts

British Airways January Sale Opens Early Access to 2026 Travel

Dec 18, 2025 02:41 AM
Bangkok temple complex under clear blue sky

LOT Opens Year-Round Bangkok Flights as Long-Haul Network Grows

Dec 18, 2025 02:27 AM

Ground Incident at JFK Disrupts Japan Airlines Schedule

Dec 18, 2025 01:34 AM

What the 1872 Cup Means for Getting Around Edinburgh

Dec 17, 2025 22:13 PM
Resort complex with poolside dining area

How a Colonial-Era House Is Being Reused for Modern Travel Experiences in Chiang Mai

Dec 17, 2025 17:29 PM
Complex rail junction

Christmas Rail Travel Faces Changes Around Milton Keynes

Dec 17, 2025 16:36 PM
Skiers overlooking the slopes in Courchevel

Rosewood Opens First Alpine Winter Resort in Courchevel 1850

Dec 17, 2025 15:56 PM
easyJet aircraft parked during peak winter travel period

Christmas Flights Surge as easyJet Expands Winter Network Across Europe

Dec 17, 2025 15:43 PM
airBaltic aircraft wing in flight during summer travel

airBaltic Adds Zurich and Chisinau to Vilnius Network for Summer 2026

Dec 17, 2025 15:39 PM

TUI Tests a New Way for Travelers to Book Flights

Dec 16, 2025 18:25 PM

Changing Weather Adds Uncertainty for Travellers in Southern Italy

Dec 16, 2025 17:42 PM
Rain and low visibility affecting travel conditions

Fog Overnight and Heavy Rain Wednesday Likely to Disrupt UK Travel

Dec 16, 2025 17:38 PM
Air India aircraft parked on the airport apron

Air India Sets Out Winter Travel Picks for the Holiday Period

Dec 16, 2025 16:55 PM
Lufthansa aircraft on the apron at the airport

Lufthansa Lounge Returns to Stuttgart Airport After Major Refurbishment

Dec 15, 2025 22:39 PM
Outdoor dining area at a coastal resort

Travellers to Get a New Resort Option in Marbella

Dec 15, 2025 22:23 PM

Heavy Rain Causes Flight Delays at Manchester Airport Before Christmas

Dec 15, 2025 21:44 PM

Rail Closure Set to Complicate Christmas Travel in Northern Italy

Dec 15, 2025 21:37 PM
Rail track maintenance work underway

West Cornwall Trips Face Disruption as St Erth–St Ives Line Closes

Dec 15, 2025 21:11 PM
Rain-soaked train platform during severe weather

Travel Plans Across the UK at Risk as Heavy Rain Continues

Dec 14, 2025 21:28 PM
flydubai aircraft taxiing on the runway

Travellers Gain a More Direct Way to Fly Between Dubai and Riga

Dec 14, 2025 20:35 PM
Crowd in Italy raising hands during public action with Italian flag

Travellers Face Possible Delays as Italy Holds 17 December Aviation Strike

Dec 13, 2025 10:41 AM
flydubai aircraft parked on the apron during ground operations

New Dubai–Vilnius Route Takes Off

Dec 13, 2025 10:27 AM

Maastricht Opens First Direct Link to Bosnia as Wizz Air Expands Eastward

Dec 13, 2025 09:34 AM

Nuremberg Airport Maps Out a Big Summer 2026 with Fresh Holiday Routes

Dec 13, 2025 08:43 AM
Wizz Air Airbus arriving for landing

Wizz Air Connects Tallinn and Budapest for the First Time

Dec 13, 2025 08:29 AM
Emirates A380 departing under cloudy skies

Winter Offer Adds Free Dubai Experiences for Emirates Passengers

Dec 13, 2025 07:36 AM