Incident Overview
During a flight at FL290, an area of known clear air turbulence was encountered shortly after the captain activated the fasten seat belt sign and instructed cabin crew to take their seats. An aft flight attendant was in the process of closing a door when the aircraft experienced severe turbulence and a sharp drop in altitude. The flight attendant sustained a broken right foot and was treated at a local hospital after landing.
Crew Actions and Procedures
The captain had been monitoring flight conditions of other aircraft at various altitudes. Upon receiving reports of turbulence ahead, he made an announcement and turned on the fasten seat belt sign. Company procedures require flight attendants to take their seats after the cockpit crew makes such an announcement and activates the sign. In this instance, the flight attendant was still completing tasks when the turbulence occurred.
Turbulence Encounter
The turbulence was described as severe, causing a noticeable altitude loss. The flight attendant was in the process of securing the cabin when the event happened, resulting in her injury. Company protocols for anticipated turbulence were followed by the cockpit crew, but the flight attendant had not yet reached her seat.
Aftermath
Upon landing, the injured flight attendant was taken to a local hospital for treatment of her broken foot. No other injuries or damage were reported in the source.