A LATAM Airlines Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner has been grounded at the remote Mataveri International Airport on Easter Island after a ground handling accident caused significant damage to the aircraft. The incident took place on 29 May 2026 shortly after the jet arrived from Santiago, Chile, operating flight LA841.
According to reports, an airstairs truck collided with the aircraft while being positioned near the fuselage. The impact reportedly tore off the aircraft’s L2 passenger door, which is the second main door located on the left side of the jet. Images from the scene showed the detached door resting on top of the airstairs vehicle after the collision.
No passengers or crew members were injured during the incident. However, the aircraft, registered CC-BBD and around 13 years old, remains stranded on Easter Island while technical teams inspect the extent of the damage and prepare repair plans.
Repairing a Boeing 787 at such an isolated location is expected to create major logistical challenges. Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui, is located more than 2,300 miles from mainland Chile, making transportation of parts, equipment, and engineering support significantly more complicated.
