Two people were injured on an Air New Zealand flight from Wellington to Queenstown on Sunday, June 16th, after encountering unexpected turbulence.
The incident occurred on flight NZ607 during beverage service in the passenger cabin. The sudden jolt of turbulence caused a full coffee pot to spill, burning one passenger.
Air New Zealand NZ607 Wellington-Queenstown
A crew member was also reported to have been injured after hitting the ceiling of the aircraft during the incident.
Thankfully, both injuries were reported as moderate and passengers were given treatment on arrival at the destination.
Upon landing in Queenstown, paramedics were waiting and transported the injured passenger and crew member to Lakes District Hospital for treatment.
Two Confirmed in ‘Moderate’ Condition
According to the regional news source the New Zealand Herald, a spokesman for Hato Hone St John confirmed they took two patients to Lakes District Hospital in ‘moderate’ condition.
The regional NZ607 service to Queenstown on New Zealand’s South Island was operated by an Airbus A320-200, registered ZK-OXH.
Flight data shows the aircraft had departed Wellington International Airport (WLG) at 13:53 local time on 16 June.
The flight had then proceeded normally on the southerly route, climbing to FL340 (34,000 feet). It then conducted a normal descent and approach into Queenstown International Airport (ZQN).
Air New Zealand chief operational integrity and safety officer Captain David Morgan made a statement on behalf of the national carrier.
He confirmed that one customer and a crew member were injured during the inflight incident on Sunday.
Inflight Turbulence Incidents
Incidents involving inflight turbulence encounters have been in the spotlight in recent times, with several instances of casualties. This has tragically included one fatality during a recent long haul Singapore Airlines service.
While encounters with unexpected severe turbulence remain relatively low, travellers should take the simple precaution of wearing a seatbelt at all times whilst seated.
Statistics show that the majority of casualties are amongst occupants not wearing seatbelts, with cabin crew amongst the numbers injured.
Yesterday’s Air New Zealand incident highlights the concerns with a turbulence encounter during a time of meal or beverage service.
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