The incident highlights the risks associated with flying through intertropical convergence zones, which are known for unpredictable weather patterns and turbulence.
This event is part of a concerning trend, as there have been multiple reports of severe turbulence incidents this year, raising questions about flight safety protocols in turbulent weather conditions.
Airlines may increase training for pilots on handling turbulence and improve communication with passengers regarding safety measures during flights through known turbulent zones.
There may be a push for enhanced weather tracking technologies to better predict and avoid turbulence-prone areas, potentially leading to changes in flight routes.
At least 11 people were injured during severe turbulence on a Lufthansa flight from Buenos Aires to Frankfurt on November 12, 2024. The incident occurred mid-flight over the Atlantic Ocean, specifically in an area known as the intertropical convergence zone, which is notorious for strong air currents that can lead to turbulence. The flight, LH511, was carrying 329 passengers and 19 crew members, and while the turbulence was described as 'brief and violent,' the safety of the aircraft was never compromised, according to the airline.
The injured included five passengers and six crew members, all of whom suffered mostly minor injuries and received medical attention upon landing in Frankfurt. Lufthansa expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers and confirmed that the injured individuals were being treated in a local hospital, with none reported in serious condition.
The turbulence caused significant fluctuations in the aircraft's speed, dropping from 946 kilometers per hour to 450 in less than a minute. Following the incident, the pilots attempted to climb to a higher altitude to avoid further turbulence, but this did not alleviate the situation. Images from the cabin showed damage, including issues with oxygen mask compartments.
