What happened
On 30 January 2015, an Airbus A320-214, registration G-EZUC, was performing a scheduled passenger flight from London Gatwick to Milan Malpensa. During the pre-flight phase, the flight crew noted weather forecasts indicating low-level turbulence, despite reports of severe conditions over the Alps at FL220.
As the aircraft descended, the crew consulted Air Traffic Control regarding turbulence along their flight path and were informed of light to moderate reports. In response, the commander notified the cabin crew of the potential for instability and ordered the cabin to be secured. While passing FL220, the aircraft encountered two rapid, severe instances of clear-air turbulence.
While the 137 passengers remained uninjured, the turbulence caused injuries to two members of the cabin crew. One crew member sustained a broken ankle, while the other suffered significant bruising. The flight crew coordinated with ground services to ensure medical personnel were waiting at the destination to assist the injured staff.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot and the operator's air safety reports. Investigators examined the flight crew's actions regarding weather monitoring and cabin preparation, as well as the specific nature of the turbulence encountered during the descent phase.