Flight 432 Flight Attendant Injuries During Turbulence

Casualties unknown • Chicago, IL, US

Three flight attendants were affected by moderate turbulence during a descent, resulting in one broken pelvis and one crew member sustaining cuts and bruises.

What happened

During a descent from 17,000 feet mean sea level (msl), Flight 432 encountered approximately 30 seconds of moderate turbulence while performing deviations to avoid weather cells.

Prior to the encounter, the seat belt sign was illuminated, and the crew had been instructed to be seated. The 'A' flight attendant, positioned at the front of the aircraft, successfully reached her jumpseat before the turbulence began. However, the 'B' and 'C' flight attendants located in the rear of the cabin were not yet seated when the encounter occurred.

The force of the turbulence threw both unseated crew members toward the ceiling of the aircraft. The 'B' flight attendant sustained cuts and bruises, while the 'B' flight attendant, upon landing on the floor, suffered a broken pelvis.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-05-06 Boeing 737-222 accident near Chicago, IL?

Three flight attendants were affected by moderate turbulence during a descent, resulting in one broken pelvis and one crew member sustaining cuts and bruises.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-05-06 involved a Boeing 737-222, registration N208AU, operated by Vanguard Airlines, at Chicago, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the flight attendants did not follow the cockpit crews instructions to be seated because of expected turbulence. A factor associated with the accident was the turbulence encountered.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18718. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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