2022-05 · NASA ASRS report 1898728
Air carrier flight crew reported an encounter with severe turbulence during cruise resulted in temporary loss of aircraft control and a flight attendant injury.
At FL 390; approximately 20 NM SE of ZZZ; ATC notified us of reports of moderate turbulence ahead. I had already asked the Flight Attendants to secure the cabin. The Passengers were seated with the Fasten Seat Belt sign on. I asked the Flight Attendants if they were seated and they said they were still securing the cabin. Shortly after that; moderate turbulence was encountered and I made a PA stating; 'Flight Attendants be seated; Flight Attendants be seated.' Shortly after that; the PF (Pilot Flying) inquired if everyone was seated. I called the Flight Attendants to ask if everyone was seated. I was told by a Flight Attendant that 'Everyone is seated.' Shortly after that; we encountered severe turbulence for about 10 seconds. The aircraft rolled left then right about 30 degrees each way. We also had an updraft and downdraft; resulting in a loss of about 400 ft. altitude and a Mach overspeed of 0.82 for about eight seconds. PF regained control of aircraft quickly. ATC was contacted for a descent to FL 350. Leveled off at FL 350. I asked the Flight Attendants if everyone was ok and was told that the B FA (Flight Attendants) had minor injuries. I notified ATC of the severe turbulence and one minor Crew injury. I notified Dispatch of the same and requested EMS meet us at the gate in ZZZ. Throughout the remainder of the flight; I periodically asked about the status of the B FA. A deadheading FA told me the B had been returned to her Jumpseat and had a sore hip and shoulder. We landed uneventfully in ZZZ. EMS met us at the gate and took the B FA to the hospital; accompanied by the deadheading FA. I was told later that B FA had no injuries other than soreness. Flight Attendants should get seated and strapped in when a Pilot makes an announcement over the PA for them to be seated; as per the Pilot's [Maintenance Facility].
At FL390 approximately 20 NM SE of ZZZ; we experienced severe turbulence. The aircraft banked hard left and right and lost 500 ft. of altitude; before we were able to regain control.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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