Incident Overview
Before the flight departed, the crew received a severe weather warning concerning conditions along the intended route. In response, the captain advised the flight attendants to prepare for early completion of passenger service and to be seated before the descent. Prior to encountering turbulence, the captain activated the seat belt sign and made an announcement instructing passengers to remain seated with their belts fastened. The flight attendants subsequently issued a similar announcement.
Despite these warnings, a female passenger and her four-year-old daughter vacated their seats to allow the child to use the lavatory located at the rear of the aircraft. As they were returning to their seats, the airplane encountered turbulence. During this event, the female passenger sustained a fractured leg.
No other injuries or damage were reported in the source. The aircraft continued its flight without further incident.
Crew Actions
The flight crew had proactively informed cabin crew about the weather warning and the need for early seating. The captain's actions included turning on the seat belt sign and making a public address. The flight attendants reinforced the message with their own announcement. These measures were taken to ensure passenger safety in anticipation of potential turbulence.
Passenger Behavior
Despite the clear warnings and announcements, the passenger and her child disregarded the instructions to remain seated. The decision to leave their seats for a lavatory visit occurred after the seat belt sign had been illuminated and announcements had been made. The timing of their movement coincided with the onset of turbulence, leading to the injury.
Outcome
The female passenger suffered a fractured leg as a result of the turbulence encounter. The source does not provide further details on medical treatment or whether the flight was diverted. The investigation report focused on the sequence of events leading to the injury.