Overview
- The Airbus A330 encountered violent convective turbulence near Creston, Wyoming at cruise altitude, with the upset lasting about 2.5 minutes.
- Flight data show an overspeed, an autopilot disconnect, vertical accelerations peaking near +1.75 g and about -0.5 g, and bank angles up to roughly 40 degrees.
- The seatbelt sign had been switched off and cabin service was underway, sending unrestrained passengers, crew and service carts into the air.
- After landing in Minneapolis, 24 passengers were evaluated and 18 were taken to hospitals; two cabin crew sustained serious injuries and five had minor injuries.
- NTSB mapping indicates the jet flew into the most intense radar return despite deviation requests, and investigators continue reviewing the recorders with participation from the FAA, Delta, ALPA, BEA and Airbus.