What happened
On March 15, 2023, an Airbus A319-132, registration CC-COY, was operating a scheduled passenger flight from Santa Marta to Bogotá. While descending through the Bogotá Terminal Area (TMA) at approximately 18,000 feet MSL, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence near the PAPET and SUR01 waypoints.
As the aircraft descended, the flight crew observed cumuliform clouds and identified convective activity on the weather radar. In an attempt to avoid the deteriorating weather, the pilot in command decided to deviate the flight path to the right. During this maneuver, the aircraft entered an area of convective activity characterized by strong updrafts and downdrafts, resulting in a significant turbulent event.
At the time of the encounter, the flight crew had already instructed the cabin crew to begin landing preparations. A flight attendant, who was securing the rear galley and handling a trolley, lost her balance due to the turbulence. The impact caused a minor injury (a hairline fracture) to the flight attendant's right ankle. The crew requested priority landing and medical assistance upon arrival at El Dorado International Airport. The aircraft landed without further incident, and the injured crew member was transported to a medical center.
The investigation
The GRIAA investigation examined the flight data, weather radar records, and crew statements. The investigation focused on the timing of the cabin preparation instructions and the effectiveness of the seat belt sign usage. Investigators analyzed satellite imagery (GOES 16) which confirmed the presence of convective nuclei in the area at the time of the event. The investigation also reviewed the operator's manual, which specified that cabin securement procedures were typically initiated at 10,000 feet AGL, regardless of weather conditions.
Findings
- The aircraft flew in close proximity to a zone of turbulence associated with evolving convective activity within a cumuliform cloud.
- The turbulent encounter occurred while the flight attendant was actively performing cabin preparation duties.
- Incomplete operational procedures regarding the timing of seat belt sign activation and cabin securement in the presence of foreseeable turbulence contributed to the incident.