23 Feb 2008: Boeing 737-700 — Southwest Airlines

23 Feb 2008: Boeing 737-700 — Southwest Airlines

No fatalities • Valdosta, GA, United States

Probable cause

An unexpected encounter with turbulence, while on approach for landing.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The Boeing 737-700 was at an altitude 30,0000 feet, and on the "PIGLT1" arrival to Orlando International Airport (MCO), Orlando, Florida, when it encountered unexpected turbulence. The pilot flying stated that the turbulence was at least moderate in intensity and lasted for about 10 seconds. The autopilot remained engaged. The seat belt sign was illuminated and the flight attendants were securing the cabin for landing. One flight attendant was thrown against a wall and sustained a fractured ankle. The airplane subsequently landed at MCO without further incident.

Contributing factors

  • cause Turbulence

Conditions

Weather
IMC, vis 10sm

Related events

Same aircraft

  • 2 Dec 2024 — BOEING 737-700 (TAAG Angola Airlines)
  • 2 Jul 2022 — BOEING 737-700 (SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO)
  • 22 May 2022 — BOEING 737-700 (SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO)
  • 27 Aug 2016 — BOEING 737-700 (Southwest Airlines)
  • 25 Sep 2014 — BOEING 737-700 (—)

Same operator

  • 15 Apr 2026 — Boeing 737 MAX 8 (Southwest Airlines)
  • 12 Sep 2025 — Boeing 737-7H4 (WL) (Southwest Airlines)
  • 19 Aug 2024 — Boeing 737-7BD (WL) (Southwest Airlines)
  • 14 Mar 2024 — Boeing 737-8H4 (WL) (Southwest Airlines)
  • 29 Nov 2022 — Boeing 737-7H4 (WL) (Southwest Airlines)

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