LATAM Boeing 777 High-Speed Rejected Takeoff Under Investigation

SAO PAULO— Aviation investigators have launched a formal inquiry into a high-speed rejected takeoff involving a LATAM Brasil Boeing 777-300 at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) on February 15, 2026. The incident occurred as the aircraft prepared for a transatlantic flight to Lisbon (LIS), carrying 414 passengers.

Unusual Abort After Rotation

The Boeing 777, registered PT-MUH, began its takeoff roll from Runway 09L after a 90-minute delay, reaching a ground speed of approximately 174 knots before the pilots initiated a rejected takeoff . The aircraft’s nose gear had briefly lifted off the runway, indicating the onset of liftoff, before the pilots reversed thrust and applied maximum braking . This scenario is considered rare and potentially dangerous in aviation operations.

V1 Speed and Standard Procedures

Flight LA-8146 had pushed back from Terminal 3 and taxied to Runway 09L before receiving takeoff clearance. Witnesses recorded the front landing gear lifting as the aircraft accelerated, only for the pilots to halt the takeoff abruptly .

Investigators are examining whether the rejected takeoff occurred after the aircraft had exceeded V1 speed – the decision speed beyond which a takeoff is generally considered committed. After V1, continuing the takeoff is typically safer than attempting to stop on the remaining runway .

The V1 calculation is influenced by factors such as aircraft weight, temperature, and runway conditions.

Aftermath and Response

Emergency services responded immediately after the aircraft came to a controlled stop on the adjacent taxiway. All tires sustained damage from the high-speed braking, and the aircraft was removed from service. Passengers disembarked safely via stairs onto the taxiway and were transported to the terminal .

LATAM Statement and Ongoing Investigation

LATAM Airlines Brazil confirmed the aborted takeoff, stating that the procedure followed established safety protocols . A spokesperson emphasized the airline’s commitment to passenger assistance, with those affected rebooked on subsequent flights or provided with hotel accommodations.

The airline reiterated that safety remains its top priority. Aviation experts have noted that such incidents highlight the importance of accurate weight calculations and takeoff speed determinations, referencing a similar incident in July 2024 at Milan Malpensa Airport involving a tailstrike due to incorrect takeoff speed calculations.

Key Takeaways

• A LATAM Brasil Boeing 777-300ER (PT-MUH) experienced a high-speed rejected takeoff at São Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport on February 15, 2026.
• The aircraft was traveling at approximately 174 knots when the pilots aborted the takeoff after the nose gear had lifted off the runway.
• Investigators are examining whether the decision to abort occurred after the V1 speed.
• All passengers and crew disembarked safely, but the aircraft sustained tire damage.
• LATAM Airlines Brazil is cooperating with the investigation and has reaffirmed its commitment to safety.

The ongoing investigation aims to determine the precise sequence of events and decisions made by the flight crew. Regulators and safety authorities will assess adherence to procedures and consider any necessary additional safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.