What happened
On November 22, 2017, an EVA Air Boeing 777-300ER, registration B-16718, was operating flight BR056 from Taipei Taoyuan International Airport to Chicago O'Hare International Airport. While cruising at 31,000 feet within the Fukuoka Flight Information Region, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence approximately 42 nautical miles east of Miyazaki Airport.
Flight data indicates that during the encounter, the aircraft experienced vertical acceleration fluctuations ranging from 1.68g to -0/13g. At the time of the turbulence, the cabin crew were performing meal services. Although the flight crew had previously received information regarding moderate turbulence in the area and had instructed passengers and crew to take their seats, the intensity of the sudden disturbance caused significant movement within the cabin. The turbulence lasted approximately two minutes.
As a result of the event, 3 passengers and 8 cabin crew members sustained injuries, with some requiring medical attention. The aircraft continued to its destination without further incident.
Investigation Findings
The investigation into the incident highlighted several key areas regarding safety procedures and operational communication. While the flight crew followed standard procedures, the investigation noted that the turbulence was severe enough to cause physical injury despite prior warnings.
Following the event, the investigation reviewed the effectiveness of cabin safety protocols during unexpected severe turbulence. The findings also addressed the necessity of improving communication regarding weather updates and the physical challenges of securing cabin service during rapid atmospheric changes.