British Airways A380 Turbulence Breaks Passenger's Ankle After Missed Seatbelt Sign

January 10, 2026 at 01:31 AM•3 min read

British Airways A380 turbulence incident in December 2024 caused a passenger broken ankle and a cabin crew injury, prompting an AAIB investigation seatbelt compliance warning.

Key Points

1The British Airways A380 turbulence incident injured a passenger and a cabin crew member on December 6, 2024.
2The passenger was injured after missing the seatbelt sign and returning from the lavatory during the 10-15 second event.
3The AAIB report highlighted the crew's use of a live weather app to anticipate the turbulence and switch on the seatbelt signs 20 minutes prior.
4Statistics show that turbulence is the leading cause of non-fatal injuries, with the majority of seriously injured passengers being unfastened.

A recent investigation by the U.K. Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) detailed a serious in-flight turbulence incident. The event involved a British Airways A380 turbulence encounter over the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft, an Airbus A380 (G-XLEI), was operating a flight from Los Angeles International to London Heathrow. The incident occurred on December 6, 2024, south of Greenland.

Incident Details

The AAIB report confirmed two serious injuries. A passenger suffered a passenger broken ankle turbulence injury. This happened while the passenger was returning to their seat from the lavatory. The individual had been asleep and missed the illuminated seatbelt sign. The passenger described the aircraft making a sudden upward and sideways movement.

A member of the cabin crew also sustained a cabin crew injury report of a broken ankle. This occurred as she attempted to secure herself in her jump seat. The aircraft was cruising at 39,000 feet (FL390) at the time. The turbulence episode lasted for approximately 10 to 15 seconds.

AAIB Findings and Safety Lessons

The AAIB investigation seatbelt findings highlighted crew preparedness. The flight crew used a live weather application on their tablets. This tool helped them anticipate the area of potentially severe turbulence. They switched on the seatbelt signs about 20 minutes before the event.

Investigators noted the crew’s actions likely limited the total number of injuries. The report stated that “more people may have been affected” otherwise. This reinforces the importance of aviation safety seatbelt compliance. The AAIB also credited the use of real-time weather apps. These tools provide localized data for better decision-making.

The flight crew used a live weather app to anticipate turbulence.
The seatbelt sign was illuminated 20 minutes before the event.
Two serious lower leg injuries were sustained by occupants.

The Risk of Unsecured Flight

This December 2024 transatlantic turbulence event underscores a persistent industry challenge. Turbulence remains the leading cause of non-fatal injuries on commercial flights. Most passengers seriously injured are not wearing their seat belts.

Data from the FAA shows a high risk for crew members. Between 2009 and 2021, 79% of serious turbulence injuries were among crew. Cabin crew are often moving during the cruise phase. This makes them more vulnerable to sudden, unexpected movements. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) promotes a culture of safety. This includes urging passengers to keep belts fastened while seated. This is the single most effective way to prevent injury.

Airline operators must continue to invest in clear-air turbulence forecasting technology. Passengers must treat the seatbelt sign as a critical safety instruction. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.