Incident Overview
United Airlines flight 553 encountered severe turbulence during its climb after departing from Denver, Colorado. The aircraft was cleared to climb to flight level 350 (FL350) via the Rockies Three Departure, routing along DEN R-240.
Preceding Weather Report
Prior to the incident, the captain of flight 553 contacted another United Airlines flight operating on the same departure course and altitude to request a weather report. The other flight reported conditions as "occasional light chop uh mostly smooth." Based on this information, the captain released the flight attendants to move about the cabin.
Turbulence Encounter
As the flight climbed between flight levels 340 and 345 (FL340-FL345), the aircraft encountered severe turbulence. The turbulence resulted in injuries to a cabin crew member.
Injuries and Damage
One flight attendant sustained a fractured kneecap and a concussion. No other injuries or damage were reported in the source.
Aftermath
The flight continued to its destination. The source does not provide information on the aircraft type, registration, operator details, weather characterization, or involvement of air traffic control beyond the initial clearance.