7.23.21 – Preventing Turbulence-Related Injuries

Friday, July 23, 2021

Preventing Turbulence-Related Injuries

Turbulence is currently the second leading cause of injuries amongst Flight Attendants. While we cannot always anticipate turbulence, here are some ways we can proactively work with the flight deck to avoid preventable turbulence-related injuries.

Prior to departure, the crew briefing with the Captain should include forecasted weather and how it may affect the ride. During flight, if the flight deck notifies you of anticipated turbulence that was not previously discussed,

• Ask clarifying questions if you are unsure of the severity or how to best respond.
• If the flight deck advises taking a seat, remain seated until they instruct you otherwise.

If you are experiencing unexpected turbulence, or if the turbulence is worse than anticipated,

• Take a seat immediately and call the flight deck to describe what you are experiencing. It is common for turbulence to worsen in certain locations in the cabin than others, so communicate that discrepancy with the flight deck if necessary.
• Request that the seatbelt sign be illuminated if it has not already been done.

You have the latitude to make decisions regarding your safety. The turbulence checklist in the IFM does not have to be completed in order, so use situational awareness to determine what items on the checklist you feel safe completing. If you feel that it is not safe to complete a compliance check,

• File a Cabin ASAP report to document the event.
• The ‘Prepare for Landing’ PA is still required to be delivered.

Ensure you are familiar with the current guidelines for turbulence procedures in the IFM: IFM > Safety > Safe Work Practices > Turbulence.

In Solidarity,

Vivian Stubblefield
APFA Safety and Security Representative
[email protected]