Passenger injury during flight due to fall in aft galley

Casualties unknown • Las Vegas, NV, US

A 70-year-old passenger sustained a fractured hip after walking through the cabin while the seat belt sign was still illuminated.

What happened

During the flight, the aircraft experienced light to moderate turbulence for much of the duration. In response to the conditions, the crew activated the seat belt sign and issued several announcements via the public address system instructing passengers to remain seated with their seat belts fastened.

Although the turbulence had subsided and the flight had become smooth by the time of the incident, the seat belt sign remained illuminated. A 70-year-old male passenger traveling in seat 23C stood up and began walking toward the aft lavatory. A cabin attendant instructed the passenger to return to his seat unless visiting the lavatory was an absolute necessity. The passenger, who used two artificial legs, did not follow this instruction and continued toward the aft galley area. While moving through the area, the passenger fell, resulting in a fractured hip.

The crew contacted Med Link via radio to obtain medical guidance. Following a consultation with a physician, the flight proceeded to its destination. The incident resulted in one injury.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-02-01 Airbus Industrie A-320-232 accident near Las Vegas, NV?

A 70-year-old passenger sustained a fractured hip after walking through the cabin while the seat belt sign was still illuminated.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-02-01 involved a Airbus Industrie A-320-232, registration N640AW, operated by America West Airlines, Inc., at Las Vegas, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The injured passenger's failure to follow the instructions of the cabin attendants.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00183. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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