The Chilean citizen arrested by Brazilian authorities after a serious racist and homophobic incident was identified as Germán Naranjo Maldini, an executive linked to the Landes airline. The incident occurred aboard flight LA8070, which was traveling from São Paulo, Brazil, to Frankfurt, Germany.
The situation gained public attention after passengers on board recorded the incident, which shows Naranjo Maldini verbally attacking another passenger. In the video footage, the executive uses derogatory phrases about the victim’s sexual orientation and skin color, accompanying his words with contemptuous gestures that were described as highly aggressive.
Following the immediate spread of the video on social media and digital platforms, Brazilian authorities intervened, arresting the individual at Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo. He remains in custody awaiting his arraignment hearing.
After the executive’s identity was revealed, Landes issued an official statement confirming that the detainee is indeed part of their organization.
The company stated that it categorically rejects any conduct related to discrimination, racism, or homophobia, and indicated that it is gathering information to determine what internal measures it will take in response to this serious incident.
For its part, LATAM Airlines emphatically condemned any act of violence or discrimination on its aircraft. The company reported that it is actively collaborating with the Brazilian Federal Police in the ongoing investigation against the Chilean passenger, providing the necessary support to clarify the events that occurred on the international flight.
