Pilot Slams on Brakes in Scary Takeoff Close Call

A terrifying runway mix-up in Brazil nearly turned deadly Saturday when a LATAM Airlines passenger jet suddenly began accelerating for takeoff — even though air traffic controllers had reportedly ordered the crew to stay put while two U.S. planes crossed directly ahead.

The frightening incident unfolded at an airport in São Paulo as thick fog blanketed the runway and sharply reduced visibility, making an already dangerous situation even more alarming.

According to reports, air traffic control had specifically told the LATAM crew that they were not cleared for takeoff because aircraft operated by American Airlines and Delta Air Lines first needed to cross the runway.

The LATAM pilots reportedly acknowledged the instruction.

But moments later, the passenger jet began racing down the runway anyway.

The unexpected move sparked panic inside the control tower, where controllers quickly issued another urgent warning to the LATAM crew.

This time, the pilots reacted.

The aircraft abruptly slammed on its brakes and aborted the takeoff, allowing the American and Delta jets to safely clear the runway before the LATAM plane continued its journey.

Exactly what caused the potentially catastrophic communication breakdown remains unclear.

The most troubling part of the incident is that the LATAM crew reportedly confirmed receiving the original instruction not to take off — only for the aircraft to begin accelerating shortly afterward.

LATAM Airlines offered few details about what happened.

The carrier said the flight “interrupted its takeoff after a request from air traffic control” and insisted the maneuver was performed safely.

“The procedure was carried out safely,” the airline said, adding that it remains “in contact with the authorities” regarding the incident.

No injuries were reported.

Still, the close call is likely to raise fresh questions about runway safety, pilot-controller communication and whether airlines and aviation regulators are doing enough to prevent potentially deadly mistakes during low-visibility conditions.

Dense fog can dramatically increase the danger of runway incursions because pilots and controllers may have difficulty visually confirming exactly where aircraft are positioned.

In this case, the controller’s rapid intervention — and the LATAM pilot’s decision to abort the takeoff — appears to have prevented what could have been a devastating collision involving three major passenger aircraft.

Authorities are now expected to determine why the LATAM jet began its takeoff roll despite apparently being told to remain on the ground.