A British Airways crew member suffered two pelvic fractures after being thrown across the cabin during severe turbulence over North Africa. The incident occurred on an Airbus A350 while the employee was drinking tea in the galley.
According to a report by the UK Government's Air Accident Investigation Branch, the crew member was 'lifted off their feet' and fell back onto the floor, sustaining two hip fractures and a badly bruised shoulder. A second crew member received a minor cut from fragments of the cup.
The turbulence lasted approximately 20 seconds. The captain, who had two and a half years of flying experience, noted that the seat belt signs were off at the time but stated that even if they had been on, it would not have prevented the injury. He described unexpected turbulence as a normal operating hazard.
The aircraft carried 15 crew and 323 passengers, none of whom experienced further turbulence. The flight continued to its planned destination, where the injured crew member was taken to hospital for X-rays.
Separately, a Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Denpasar diverted to Bangkok on May 10 after encountering clear air turbulence, resulting in moderate and minor injuries. The airline provided meals and accommodation for passengers.
