Severe Turbulence Hits Alaska Airlines Flight

TL;DR

An Alaska Airlines flight from Seattle to Phoenix encountered severe turbulence, leading to the hospitalization of several crew members. The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, prompted an investigation by the FAA. No passengers were hospitalized, but one received medical attention. The airline expressed gratitude for the crew's professionalism during the emergency.

An Alaska Airlines flight en route from Seattle to Phoenix experienced severe turbulence, resulting in several crew members being hospitalized. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon, and the flight landed safely at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This unexpected event has raised concerns about flight safety and the unpredictable nature of turbulence.

Turbulence Incident Details

Alaska Airlines Flight 700, traveling from Seattle to Phoenix, encountered severe turbulence around 2:30 p.m. on Thursday. Upon landing at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport at approximately 3:10 p.m., medical professionals attended to several crew members and one passenger. While no passengers were hospitalized, several crew members were transported to the hospital for further treatment. The extent of their injuries remains unspecified. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the turbulence [1] [2].

Airline and FAA Response

Following the incident, Alaska Airlines issued a statement expressing apologies for the concern caused to passengers and commending the crew for their professionalism. The airline is providing support to the affected crew members as they seek further medical attention. The FAA, which is investigating the incident, highlighted the rarity of such severe turbulence. The agency has provided resources on how passengers can stay safe during turbulent flights, emphasizing the importance of keeping seat belts fastened [1] [3].

Expert Insights on Turbulence

Aviation experts have weighed in on the incident, noting that while severe turbulence is rare, it can occur due to unpredictable weather patterns, especially in regions like the Pacific Northwest. Captain Ron Nielson, a former commercial airline pilot, described such turbulence as akin to riding a big wave. He and other experts emphasized the importance of safety measures such as keeping seat belts fastened and using FAA-approved seats for young children. These precautions can significantly reduce the risk of injury during unexpected turbulence [3].

The severe turbulence experienced by Alaska Airlines Flight 700 underscores the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of preparedness. While the incident resulted in the hospitalization of several crew members, no passengers were seriously injured. The airline's response and the FAA's investigation aim to address safety concerns and prevent future incidents. As aviation experts suggest, adhering to safety protocols can mitigate the risks associated with turbulence, ensuring a safer experience for all passengers.

Notable Quotes

"We apologize for any concern this experience may have caused our guests. We are appreciative of our dedicated crew for their skill and professionalism in responding to this situation." - Alaska Airlines

"I've been in, I'd say severe turbulence maybe a half dozen times over my career, and sometimes it's like riding on a big wave up and down." - Captain Ron Nielson

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