By Trend News Line 2024-06-20 08:24:00.
Turbulence Incident on Air New Zealand Flight
On June 16, an Air New Zealand flight from Wellington to Queenstown encountered severe turbulence, resulting in injuries to a passenger and a crew member. The Airbus A320 experienced turbulence approximately 15 minutes into the flight, leading to a harrowing experience for those on board.
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The turbulence caused a passenger, identified as “Suze,” to suffer burns when a full coffee pot fell on her. Describing the incident as a “small jolt” followed by a “massive jolt,” Suze shared her terrifying experience of being strapped in during the turbulence. The trolley shook, causing the coffee pot lids to dislodge and spill hot coffee onto her, resulting in burns.
Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT)
Clear-air turbulence (CAT) is a form of turbulence that occurs in clear skies without any visual indicators, such as clouds or thunderstorms. Suze’s account of the incident highlighted the sudden and intense nature of CAT, with the trolley shaking and hot coffee spilling due to the invisible rough air.
During the turbulence, a crew member also suffered injuries, colliding with the cabin’s ceiling. The severity of the turbulence was described by another passenger as the worst they had experienced in their career, emphasizing the challenges posed by CAT for flight crews.
Response and Safety Measures
Following the incident, Air New Zealand’s Chief Operational Integrity and Safety Officer, Captain David Morgan, emphasized the airline’s commitment to reviewing operating procedures to prioritize passenger and crew safety. He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of clear-air turbulence, highlighting the need for constant vigilance and adaptation in safety protocols.
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Fortunately, a paramedic on the flight was able to assist Suze with her injuries, and both she and the crew member were taken to Lake District Hospital for further treatment. Suze’s concerns about serving hot drinks on short flights and the need for improved safety measures on coffee pot lids underscore the importance of proactive safety measures in aviation.
Lessons Learned and Safety Protocols
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the potential dangers of clear-air turbulence and the critical role of continuous safety assessment in the aviation industry. Air New Zealand’s swift response and commitment to revising safety procedures demonstrate the airline’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of passengers and crew members.
In conclusion, the incident on the Air New Zealand flight sheds light on the unpredictable nature of turbulence and the importance of proactive safety measures in mitigating risks. By sharing the experiences of those affected by the incident, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by flight crews and the resilience required to navigate unexpected events in the skies..
1. Severe turbulence on Air New Zealand flight
2. Crew member hits ceiling, passenger scalded by coffee.
