Incident Details
During descent into the Denver area, the flight crew had been forewarned of potential severe turbulence. In response, the 'Fasten Seat Belts' sign was illuminated, and flight attendants were directed to confirm that all passengers were seated with their seat belts fastened. An elderly passenger, however, rose from her seat and proceeded toward the aft lavatory.
As a flight attendant attempted to guide the passenger into a jump seat, the aircraft encountered light turbulence. Before the seat belts could be secured, the airplane experienced severe turbulence. Both the passenger and the flight attendant were thrown about the cabin due to the sudden movement.
Injuries
The elderly passenger suffered a serious injury as a result of being thrown. The flight attendant who had been helping her sustained a minor injury. Additionally, another flight attendant and a passenger were also injured, both with minor injuries.
Crew Actions
The crew had taken precautionary steps prior to the turbulence, including activating the seat belt sign and instructing cabin crew. The flight attendant was in the process of ensuring the passenger was seated when the severe turbulence occurred.