Overview
A Qantas Boeing 737-800, registration VH-VXC, operating flight QF-528 from Sydney, New South Wales, to Brisbane, Queensland (Australia), encountered severe turbulence while descending into Brisbane. The incident resulted in injuries to three passengers and minor damage to the aircraft.
Key Details
• Aircraft:
• Type: Boeing 737-800
• Registration: VH-VXC
• Operator: Qantas
• Flight Number: QF-528
• Route: Sydney (NSW) → Brisbane (QL)
• Date: November 13th, 2024
• Location: Approximately FL330 near Brisbane, during descent
• Time of Incident: ~30 minutes prior to landing
Sequence of Events
1. Preparation for Descent:
• The flight crew activated the “Fasten Seat Belt” signs in anticipation of upcoming turbulence and issued standard announcements for passengers to return to their seats and fasten seatbelts.
2. Encounter with Turbulence:
• Approximately 4–5 minutes after the seatbelt signs were illuminated, the aircraft descended through FL330 and encountered severe turbulence lasting 45–60 seconds.
3. Passenger Injuries:
• A passenger who had entered the lavatory prior to the seatbelt signs being turned on was injured during the turbulence.
• Another passenger with a small child ignored crew instructions and entered a second lavatory, where both sustained injuries. The lavatory door was damaged during the turbulence and had to be removed by an off-duty pilot to access the passengers.
4. Medical Assistance:
• The crew declared a medical PAN PAN and coordinated with air traffic control to ensure ambulance services were available upon arrival.
5. Landing and Aftermath:
• The aircraft landed safely in Brisbane, where paramedics treated the three injured passengers at the gate.
Investigation Findings
• Turbulence Details:
• Severe turbulence was encountered due to atmospheric conditions during descent.
• Passenger Behavior:
• One passenger failed to return to their seat when the seatbelt signs were illuminated.
• Another passenger, carrying a child, ignored crew instructions and entered the lavatory despite turbulence warnings.
• Cabin Damage:
• The lavatory door sustained damage, requiring removal to access the injured passengers.
Safety Message from the ATSB
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) issued the following reminder:
• When the seatbelt sign is illuminated, passengers are legally required to remain seated with seatbelts fastened for their safety.
• Passengers are advised to keep seatbelts fastened at all times, even when the seatbelt sign is off, as turbulence can occur unexpectedly.
• Cabin crew instructions must be followed to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew.
Key Takeaways for Passenger Safety
• Always comply with seatbelt sign illumination and crew instructions.
• Remain seated with seatbelts fastened whenever possible, even during smooth flight conditions.
• Avoid unnecessary movement in the cabin, especially during descent or when turbulence is anticipated.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the importance of adherence to safety protocols during flight, particularly when turbulence is expected. The quick actions of the flight crew ensured the safety of all passengers and a smooth landing at Brisbane Airport.
Disclaimer
This report is based on available information as of January 15, 2025. If you are the rightful owner of any associated media and wish for it to be removed, please contact takedown@cockpitking.com.
