Incident Overview
Date: Sunday 21 June 1998
Aircraft Type: Boeing 747SP-44
Owner/operator: South African Airways – SAA
Registration Number: ZS-SPB
Location: near Frankfurt Airport –
ÿ Germany
Phase of Flight: En route
Casualties: Fatalities: 0 / Occupants:
Component Affected: Aircraft Flight Control SystemAircraft Flight Control System
Category: Accident
An aircraft deviated from its planned approach due to radar detection of thunderstorms. Subsequent observation confirmed the aircraft was well clear of the thunderstorms. The aircraft then experienced severe turbulence with sharp, violent up-and-down draughts, causing passenger and crew discomfort. Normal power settings were maintained at 320 kt.An aircraft deviated from its planned approach due to radar detection of thunderstorms. Subsequent observation confirmed the aircraft was well clear of the thunderstorms. The aircraft then experienced severe turbulence with sharp, violent up-and-down draughts, causing passenger and crew discomfort. Normal power settings were maintained at 320 kt.
Description
During approach the aircraft deviated to avoid thunderstorms. radar then showed the aircraft well clear of any thunderstorms. The “fasten seat belt” signs were switched on, when it became apparent that the aircraft would not clear the tops of the cloud. The aircraft then experienced severe turbulence in cloud with sharp, violent, up and down draughts for 2 to 3 s at fl 210 (2 100 ft). Some pax and cabin crew members were thrown around. Normal power setting were maintained at an IAS of 320 kt.
Primary Cause
Radar detection of thunderstorms prompted an avoidance maneuver.Radar detection of thunderstorms prompted an avoidance maneuver.Share on:
