SIA pilots could not avoid turbulence on 2025 flight that led to crew member fracturing ankle: Report
The safety bureau report said the turbulence was unavoidable despite the precautions taken by the pilots.
A Singapore Airlines cabin crew member suffered a right ankle fracture after a Flight SQ919 encountered turbulent weather on its way to Singapore from Manila on November 14, 2025. The Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) reported on October 5, detailing the investigation into the incident. The Airbus A350-900 plane, flying at 40,000ft, encountered convective activity, or vertical movements of moist, hot air, about two hours into the two-hour and 55-minute flight.
The pilots, alerted by weather radars, chose to continue their planned route despite the storm clouds being 80 nautical miles ahead and at 30,000ft altitude. The crew switched on the "fasten seat belt" signs and advised cautious cabin service. However, at 7.53pm, the plane experienced turbulence at an altitude of 38,450ft. The vertical acceleration dropped significantly, reaching 1.89G and then fluctuating before stabilizing.
The pilots, following pre-flight briefings, had anticipated occasional storm clouds at altitudes of up to 51,000ft. Despite precautions, the turbulence could not be avoided, highlighting how weather phenomena can affect aircraft even above storm clouds. SIA acknowledged the report's findings, stating that pilots and cabin crew undergo regular training and safety updates. The injured crew member has since returned to flying duties.
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