Abbott has been mortally injured as a result of the explosion (which Costello refers to as "death process"); Costello explains that they have come to help humanity, for in 3,000 years they will need humanity's help in return.

Does anyone die in arrival?

From the very beginning of the movie, we learn that she tragically dies from a rare disease—a fact confirmed later in one of Louise's visions. In that same vision, Louise explains to her daughter why the child's father left: "It's my fault.

How does Abbott die?

But pay closer attention to the scene right before the Heptapod known as "Abbott" is killed in the blast set up by disgruntled soldiers who want the military to strike back against the aliens. Abbott arrives late to the conversation, maybe because he knows he's about to die.