What happened
On May 23, 2011, at approximately 15:20 EDT, a Boeing 757-223, registration N623DL, was operating as a scheduled passenger flight from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport (ATL). While cruising at FL340, approximately 200 miles northeast of the destination, the aircraft encountered turbulence.
The flight crew reported they were maneuvering between two convective weather cells in an area of forecast weather when the aircraft inadvertently entered the edge of a cumulus buildup. Although the seat belt sign was illuminated, one passenger was out of her seat when the turbulence occurred and fell, resulting in a serious injury (a broken ankle). Additionally, one of the four flight attendants sustained a minor injury. The two flight crew members, the remaining three flight attendants, and the other 180 passengers were not injured. The aircraft sustained no damage and proceeded to Atlanta.
Findings
- The aircraft entered the edge of a cumulus buildup while maneuvering between convective cells.
- The passenger was unrestrained despite the seat belt sign being active.