Additional Coverage:
- Passengers were thrown into the air by severe turbulence with little warning, NTSB report says (cnn.com)
Sudden Turbulence Injures 25 on Delta Flight
A Delta Air Lines flight encountered unexpected severe turbulence, injuring 25 people and forcing an emergency landing. Delta Flight 56, an Airbus A330 en route from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam, experienced the turbulence near Creston, Wyoming, on July 30.
The incident sent seven crew members and 18 passengers to local hospitals after the plane diverted to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. Two individuals sustained serious injuries, while five others reported minor injuries.
According to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the turbulence occurred without significant warning. Although the flight crew was aware of thunderstorms in the vicinity, their onboard weather information indicated only light turbulence. The seat belt sign was off at the time, and meal service was in progress.
The abrupt turbulence, lasting approximately 2.5 minutes, caused unsecured items, including service carts and passengers, to be thrown around the cabin. The aircraft exceeded its maximum allowable speed and experienced both high positive and negative g-forces.
The autopilot system disengaged, and the plane sustained minor interior damage. An off-duty first officer and a passenger with medical training assisted the injured until the flight landed.
The NTSB is currently analyzing flight data and cockpit voice recorders. A final report, including the probable cause of the incident, is expected in 12 to 18 months.