Date: August 8, 2024
Location: 80 nautical miles south of Charlotte, NC, USA
Aircraft: Airbus A321-200, registration N542UW
Operator: American Airlines
Flight Number: AA-2905
Route: Tampa International Airport (TPA), FL, to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), NC, USA
Occupants: Unknown
Injuries: 1 serious, 3 minor (cabin crew)
Summary of Events
On August 8, 2024, American Airlines Flight AA-2905, an Airbus A321-200 en route from Tampa to Charlotte, encountered severe turbulence during its descent through FL200, approximately 80 nautical miles south of its destination. The turbulence resulted in serious injuries to one flight attendant, who sustained a double hip fracture, and minor injuries to three other cabin crew members. The aircraft continued for a safe landing at Charlotte Douglas International Airport approximately 20 minutes later.
The occurrence has been classified as an accident by the NTSB, which has launched an investigation to determine the contributing factors and recommend preventive measures.
Aircraft Details
• Type: Airbus A321-200
• Registration: N542UW
• Engines: 2x CFM56
• Configuration: Passenger aircraft
Sequence of Events
1. Cruise and Descent:
• The flight departed Tampa International Airport and proceeded uneventfully until the descent phase.
2. Encounter with Turbulence:
• As the aircraft descended through FL200, it encountered unexpected turbulence.
• The severity of the turbulence caused significant movement within the cabin, leading to injuries among cabin crew.
3. Crew Actions:
• The flight crew ensured the aircraft remained stable and continued the descent toward Charlotte.
• Injured crew members were attended to by other crew and passengers where possible.
4. Landing:
• The aircraft landed safely at Charlotte Douglas International Airport without further incident.
Injuries and Impact
• Serious Injury:
• One flight attendant sustained a double hip fracture due to the force of the turbulence.
• Minor Injuries:
• Three additional cabin crew members suffered minor injuries.
• Passengers:
• No passenger injuries were reported.
Initial Findings
1. Turbulence Severity:
• The turbulence was significant enough to cause injury but did not compromise the structural integrity of the aircraft.
2. Weather Conditions:
• The exact meteorological conditions leading to the turbulence are under investigation. Possible factors include convective activity or clear air turbulence.
3. Seatbelt Sign:
• It is unclear if the seatbelt sign was illuminated at the time of the incident or if crew members were secured in their jump seats.
4. Crew Preparedness:
• The cabin crew’s injuries highlight the challenges of turbulence when crew members are performing in-flight duties.
Safety Risks Identified
1. Crew Vulnerability:
• Cabin crew are particularly vulnerable during turbulence due to the nature of their in-flight responsibilities.
2. Turbulence Detection:
• Sudden turbulence, especially at higher altitudes, can be difficult to predict and avoid.
3. Passenger and Crew Safety:
• Ensuring all occupants are secured during turbulence remains a critical safety priority.
Recommendations
1. Enhanced Weather Awareness:
• Improve real-time turbulence forecasting and communication with flight crews.
2. Turbulence Training:
• Reinforce turbulence response protocols for flight crews, including securing themselves during unexpected turbulence.
3. Injury Mitigation:
• Explore potential advancements in cabin design and equipment to reduce the risk of injury during turbulence.
4. Passenger Communication:
• Ensure passengers are informed of the importance of keeping seatbelts fastened when seated, even during smooth flight conditions.
Safety Lessons
This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of in-flight turbulence and its potential to cause injuries, even on routine flights. The prompt actions of the flight crew and the structural integrity of the aircraft ensured a safe outcome, but the event highlights the need for continued advancements in turbulence detection and safety measures for crew and passengers alike.
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
