Flight attendant injury during turbulence

Casualties unknown • Orlando, FL, US

A flight attendant sustained a broken ankle when an aircraft encountered unexpected moderate turbulence while descending through a broken cloud layer.

What happened

While the aircraft was skimming a broken layer of clouds with approximately 2,000 feet of vertical buildup, it encountered a moderate burst of turbulence lasting about one second. The captain had issued a landing preparation announcement approximately six minutes prior to the event. According to the captain, there were no radar indications or visual observations suggesting anything more than light turbulence.

Prior to the impact, the captain instructed the flight attendants to secure the cabin and take their seats due to potential turbulence. During the process of cleaning up the cabin, the turbulence became severe. The number one flight attendant reported that the number two flight attendant fell onto her ankle during the event.

Findings

Upon arrival at the gate, emergency personnel applied a splint to the injured flight attendant's ankle. She was subsequently transported to a hospital, where medical staff confirmed she had sustained 1 broken ankle.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-11-06 Mcdonnell Douglas MD-82 accident near Orlando, FL?

A flight attendant sustained a broken ankle when an aircraft encountered unexpected moderate turbulence while descending through a broken cloud layer.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-11-06 involved a Mcdonnell Douglas MD-82, registration N479AA, at Orlando, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The airplane's inflight encounter with turbulence that resulted in injuries to the number two flight attendant.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021112X05460. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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