Flight History
On 18 June 2019 at 0418 UTC (1218 local time), a Hong Kong Airlines Airbus A330-243, registration B-LHA, was en route from Beijing to Hong Kong when it encountered turbulence. The flight had been avoiding weather and experiencing occasional moderate turbulence during the cruise. Approximately 30 minutes before the estimated time of arrival (ETA), the captain informed the cabin crew manager that the weather in Hong Kong was poor and instructed them to prepare the cabin for an early arrival.
Injuries
During the cabin crew pre-landing checks, with the seat belt sign illuminated, the aircraft encountered a region of severe turbulence. The captain made a public announcement directing cabin crew to take their seats. During this event, one cabin crew member sustained a right foot injury. The aircraft landed at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), after which the injured crew member was immediately taken to the airport clinic for medical treatment. She was later transferred to North Lantau Hospital and subsequently to Prince Margaret Hospital. Diagnosis revealed an acute traumatic fracture of the metatarsal bones of the right foot.
Meteorological Context
The flight crew had received information about adverse weather conditions in Hong Kong. The aircraft's weather radar system was operational, and the crew utilized it to navigate areas of precipitation. The encounter with severe turbulence occurred while the aircraft was still in cruise, prior to descent. The investigation reconstructed wind data from flight records to analyze the turbulence event.
Investigation
The Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) of Hong Kong conducted an investigation into the accident. The investigation team reviewed flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder information, weather reports, and operational procedures. One safety recommendation was issued as a result of the investigation. The report did not assign a probable cause to the accident.