Incident Overview
A commercial flight operating between Mexico City and Miami encountered severe turbulence during its descent, leading to injuries among passengers and crew. The captain reported that the seat belt sign had been illuminated for the entire duration of the flight.
Sequence of Events
Approximately 50 miles from Key West, the aircraft began a descent from flight level 370. While passing through about 11,500 feet, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence. At that time, the airspeed was 270 knots, and the aircraft was passing through a cumulus cloud. The flight crew continued to Miami International Airport and landed without further incident.
Injuries
One passenger suffered a serious injury, while four passengers and four flight attendants received minor injuries. The injuries occurred when occupants were thrown about the cabin or against loose seat belts.
Weather Conditions
A weather study revealed a large area of Level 2 to Level 5 thunderstorms along the route. There was a convective SIGMET for an area of thunderstorms with tops reaching 45,000 feet.
Passenger Accounts
Passengers stated that no previous announcements were made to warn them of possible turbulence, except for the seat belt sign being on.