Turbulence is a frequent occurrence in air travel and presents a notable safety hazard, particularly for cabin crew members. Unlike passengers, crew are often on their feet—moving through the cabin, assisting travelers, conducting safety checks, and securing the aircraft. These responsibilities make them especially vulnerable to injury during sudden or unexpected turbulence. According to data from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB), nearly 80% of serious turbulence-related injuries are sustained by cabin crew, primarily during cabin preparation for landing
Cabin crew injuries can range from minor bruises to serious fractures or concussions. These incidents can lead to lost work time, medical costs, and psychological stress.
During SIRM 34, an airline gave a presentation on the topic of reducing turbulence injuries for crew members.
Following were the takeaways from this presentation:
- The important role of the pre-departure briefing between pilots and cabin crew – to discuss turbulence forecast and identify any service adjustments which might be implemented.
- On longer flights, additional contact between cabin and flight crew before commencement of aisle services, to determine whether any updated turbulence information is available which may impact safe delivery of service.
- Take action immediately – in cases of unexpected turbulence, BE SEATED immediately
- Report the event after the flight and give details on the experienced turbulence.
At the organizational level, the following have been proven effective:
- Gathering information from the line operations through LOSA observations (joint flight deck and cabin LOSA observations, when possible).
- Cross-divisional work – to generate enhanced SOPs, to evaluate risks, propose mitigations etc.
- Collecting data and feedback post new/amended SOP implementation for further enhancements, if/as needed.
- Revising SOPs so that cabin crew is seated by FL 100 (10,000 feet).
- Effective communication between the flight deck and cabin crew is essential during descent. Several steps are taken to notify the crew about the various phases of descent, including the use of seatbelt signs and chimes, and audio notifications from the cockpit. Such notifications help crews manage their tasks before reaching FL100.
- It has been observed that turbulence is often stronger in the aft part of the cabin, so it is recommended that to use this area for assessing turbulence intensity. Additionally, it is good practice to allow cabin crews use the PA system to support their colleagues by announcing when it is time to take the jump seat. When using the crew station, cabin crew should make full use of their harnesses; and during severe turbulence – take “brace” position to prevent injury.
- Change management was highlighted as an important part of SOP adoption, including the use of various communication channels (e.g.: posters, newsletters and lock/home screens on crew PEDs).
Conclusion: Mitigation strategies to prevent cabin crew injuries
- Improved forecasting and real-time turbulence detection can help pilots avoid rough air (e.g. IATA Turbulence Aware).
- Revised safety protocols, such as requiring crew to be seated during certain phases of flight when turbulence is likely.
- Cabin design improvements, like better harness systems or safer storage for service carts.
- Service design improvements, like using catering equipment in ways that minimize loose and unsecured items in the cabin and galleys at all times.
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