A turbulence on a British Airways flight in late 2024 left two people with ankle injuries, according to the UK’s Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB).
The plane, an Airbus A380-841, was flying from Los Angeles to London, carrying 24 crew members and 277 passengers. According to the AAIB, the plane experienced “brief turbulence” while “over the Atlantic Ocean south of Greenland.” The bumpy air trip “caused two people in the cabin to fall and suffer serious calf injuries.” A January 2026 report documenting the incident noted that the two injured were a passenger and a crew member. The former’s ankle was broken after turbulence “lifted her up” and she fell. She had been trying to get into her seat and put on her seat belt before she was injured.
As the passengers returned to their seats on the upper deck of the plane, the seat belt lights came on and the plane suddenly moved “up and to the side.” His ankle was also broken.
The report states that without seat belt signs, “more people may have been affected.”
What else should you know about turbulence on British Airways flights?
Weather forecasts show “moderate turbulence” along aircraft routes in southern Greenland. However, the briefing document the crew received before the flight did not mention any “significant weather warning”.
Crews use real-time weather technology while in the air to inform their decisions. These options during turbulence include turning on passenger seat belt signs and instructing to ensure equipment in the cabin is secure and crew members are safely seated.
The Independent shared a statement from British Airways regarding the incident. The airline said: “Safety is always our top priority and our highly skilled pilots and cabin crew are trained to deal with such rare events. The aircraft landed safely at London Heathrow Airport where our teams are looking after our colleagues and customers.”
What should passengers know about staying safe during turbulence?
There are a number of things passengers can do to keep themselves and others safe during turbulence. Of course, paying attention to when the airplane seatbelt light comes on is one of the simplest and most impactful things you can do. It is crucial to remain seated and fasten your seatbelt during this time, but it is best to remain seated for the entire flight. During flight, turbulence can occur suddenly and without warning.
Always follow flight and crew instructions when flying as their guidance can save lives and prevent injuries. Also, be sure to store your belongings securely. This may mean placing items in a properly closed overhead bin, securely under the seat in front of you, or in other authorized locations recommended by the crew.
If moderate to severe turbulence occurs when you leave your seat, grab something you can grab and find the nearest empty seat on the plane. There, you can buckle up. Follow the flight attendant’s instructions and stay alert so you can dodge anything unsafe that might be fired at you.
Turbulence anxiety is real, but taking safety precautions can help travelers feel calmer. Avoid panic, practice flight-friendly grounding techniques, and remind yourself that air travel is considered the safest form of transportation. Also, book a seat near the wings or the front of the plane, as these areas may feel smoother.
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