Turbulence results in injuries during descent

Casualties unknown • Fort Worth, TX, US

A domestic scheduled flight encountered severe turbulence while descending, resulting in fractures for two cabin crew members.

What happened

During a scheduled domestic flight, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence while descending toward its destination. In response to the weather conditions, the pilot activated the seatbelt sign and issued an announcement instructing the cabin crew to take their seats due to expected turbulence.

At the time of the encounter, two aft cabin attendants were in the process of moving toward their assigned seats. They had just finished stowing an auxiliary table in the rear of the aircraft. The sudden onset of severe turbulence caused both crew members to sustain injuries.

Findings

Medical evaluations following the event confirmed that one cabin attendant sustained a fractured right ankle, while the second cabin attendant suffered a fractured tibia.

Weather reports for the destination airport at the time of the incident indicated active thunderstorm and rain activity, accompanied by frequent lightning in the area.

Probable cause

The encounter with severe turbulence during descent, which was associated with thunderstorm and rain activity.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-06-12 Boeing MD-82 accident near Fort Worth, TX?

A domestic scheduled flight encountered severe turbulence while descending, resulting in fractures for two cabin crew members.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-06-12 involved a Boeing MD-82, registration N451AA, operated by American Airlines, Inc., at Fort Worth, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The encounter with severe turbulence during descent, which was associated with thunderstorm and rain activity.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030624X00944. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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