Created Wednesday, Jan 15th 2025 16:07Z, last updated Wednesday, Jan 15th 2025 16:07Z
A Qantas Boeing 737-800, registration VH-VXC performing flight
QF-528 from Sydney,NS to Brisbane,QL (Australia), was enroute at FL370 and nearing the top of descent into Brisbane when the crew engaged the "Fasten Seat Belt" signs due to upcoming turbulence. About 4-5 minutes later while descending through FL330 the aircraft encountered turbulence that lasted about 45-60 seconds causing injuries to three passengers. The crew declared PAN PAN, requested medical assistance to be available upon arrival, and continued for a safe landing in Brisbane about 30 minutes later.
Australia's TSB released an occurrence brief stating:
Just prior to descent, the flight crew, aware of potential upcoming turbulence, turned the seatbelt sign on, and made a standard announcement for all passengers to return to their seats and to fasten their seatbelts.
Around 4–5 minutes after the seatbelt sign was turned on, as the aircraft passed FL330, the aircraft encountered severe turbulence for approximately 45–60 seconds.
One passenger, who was already in the toilet prior to the seatbelt sign being turned on, did not return to their seat before the turbulence encounter. Another passenger, with a small child, ignored the seatbelt sign and cabin crew requests to be seated and proceeded with the child to the second toilet where they remained during the turbulence encounter. The door to this toilet was damaged during the turbulence, likely from passenger impact, and was unable to be opened. An off-duty pilot assisted removing the door to access the 2 passengers inside. All 3 passengers sustained minor injuries and were provided with first aid by cabin crew.
The flight crew declared a medical PAN PAN to air traffic control and the aircraft landed in Brisbane without further incident. Ambulance staff treated the injured passengers at the gate.
The ATSB issued following safety message:
When the seatbelt sign is on, passengers are required by law to have their seatbelt fastened for their own safety. Even when the seatbelt sign is off, passengers should continue to keep their seatbelt fastened, as pilots or cabin crew do not always have enough time to warn passengers to fasten their seatbelts before turbulence hits.
Cabin crew are trained to ensure passengers are safe at all times, and are aware of the dangers of in-flight turbulence. It is for this reason that passengers should follow any requests by cabin crew – including fastening seatbelts, securing carry-on baggage, or returning to seats when asked.
Related Flight:
QF528,
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