The UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has published details of an accident involving a British-registered Airbus A380 (G-XLEI) operating scheduled passenger flight BA268 from Los Angeles to London Heathrow on 6 December 2024. The aircraft encountered unexpected turbulence over the Atlantic Ocean south of Greenland, resulting in serious injuries to one cabin crew member and one passenger.
The aircraft was cruising at FL390 when it entered an area forecast for moderate turbulence. Although no SIGMETs were included in the pre-flight briefing, North Atlantic weather charts indicated potential turbulence linked to the jet stream. The flight crew actively monitored conditions using a live weather application on their electronic flight bags, which provides real-time turbulence data via the IATA Turbulence Aware platform.
Anticipating possible turbulence, the commander switched on the seat belt signs approximately 20 minutes before the event and instructed cabin crew to secure the cabin and take their seats. Despite this, a short 10–15 second turbulence encounter caused rapid vertical acceleration changes (between 0.5g and 2.1g). During this period, a cabin crew member was injured while attempting to secure herself in her jump seat, and a passenger—who had left his seat to use the lavatory—also sustained a serious ankle injury.
Medical assistance was provided onboard by two passengers who were doctors, supported by cabin crew and ground-based medical advice from MedLink. A third, unrelated medical incident occurred shortly afterwards, further stretching onboard resources. After assessing diversion options and consulting medical and operational partners, the commander declared a medical PAN and continued to Heathrow, where emergency services met the aircraft on arrival.
The AAIB found no aircraft damage and confirmed that the crew acted in accordance with procedures. The report concludes that real-time weather technology and access to ground-based medical advisory services played a key role in informed decision-making and that the early activation of seat belt signs likely prevented more serious injuries. The incident underscores both the unpredictable nature of clear-air turbulence and the continuing importance of passengers complying with seat belt guidance, even when conditions appear calm.