What happened
On 13 September 2015, an Emirates Airbus A380-800, registration A6-EEA, was operating flight EK806 from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. During the descent through FL300, the flight crew observed a small, isolated cloud formation. Although the crew requested a weather deviation from air traffic control, the request was denied due to existing airspace conflicts, necessitating a passage through the cloud.
As the aircraft entered the cloud, it encountered localized turbulence lasting approximately three to four seconds, resulting in vertical acceleration loads. At the time of the encounter, the cabin crew were performing pre-landing duties in accordance with standard operating procedures. The sudden g-load caused one cabin crew member to lose her balance and fall, resulting in a serious injury consisting of a fractured right ankle. Nine other crew members reported minor injuries. The aircraft landed at Dubai International Airport without further incident.
The investigation
An investigation by the UAE Air Accident Investigation Sector (AAIS) examined the flight data, meteorological conditions, and cabin safety protocols. Investigators analyzed the flight data recorder, which showed vertical acceleration fluctuations between +2.2g and +0.07g during the turbulence event.
The inquiry also scrutinized the footwear worn by the crew. It was established that the injured crew member had changed into high-heeled shoes for the pre-landing phase, as required by the operator's standard operating procedures. The investigation looked into the communication between the flight deck and the cabin, noting that the crew had not been alerted to the potential for turbulence prior to the encounter.