Flight Attendant Injured During Unexpected Turbulence Near South Bend

Casualties unknown • South Bend, IN, US

A flight attendant sustained serious back injuries after falling in the aft galley during a period of moderate turbulence while approaching South Bend, Indiana.

What happened

While approaching South Bend, Indiana, an aircraft encountered moderate turbulence for several seconds as it climbed through FL200. Prior to this encounter, the flight crew had been utilizing radar to navigate around weather, and there were no prior pilot reports of turbulence. Additionally, the company dispatcher's weather package contained no warnings regarding turbulent conditions.

The turbulence was sudden and brief; the captain reported that the event started and ended so rapidly that there was insufficient time to alert the cabin crew. At the moment the aircraft encountered the turbulence, the seat belt sign was illuminated. During the disturbance, a flight attendant working in the aft galley fell to the floor, resulting in serious injuries to her back.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1994-07-07 Boeing 737-2H4 accident near South Bend, IN?

A flight attendant sustained serious back injuries after falling in the aft galley during a period of moderate turbulence while approaching South Bend, Indiana.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-07-07 involved a Boeing 737-2H4, registration N60SW, at South Bend, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE ENCOUNTER WITH UNFORCASTED AND UNREPORTED TURBULENCE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01744. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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