B741, en-route, Pacific Ocean, 1997
B741, en-route, Pacific Ocean, 1997
Summary
On 28th December 1997, a Boeing 747-100 being operated by United Airlines, which had departed from Tokyo for Hawaii, encountered severe turbulence thought to have been associated with a Jet Stream over the Pacific Ocean.
Flight Details
Aircraft
Operator
Type of Flight
Public Transport (Passenger)
Flight Origin
Intended Destination
Actual Destination
Take-off Commenced
Yes
Flight Airborne
Yes
Flight Completed
Yes
Phase of Flight
Cruise
Location
Approx.
Pacific Ocean, 870 NM SE of Tokyo Narita, Japan
WX
Tag(s)
CAT encounter
CS
Tag(s)
Turbulence Injury - Cabin Crew,
Cabin Stowage - Pax Items
Outcome
Damage or injury
Yes
Aircraft damage
Minor
Non-aircraft damage
Yes
Non-occupant Casualties
No
Occupant Injuries
Few occupants
Occupant Fatalities
Few occupants
Number of Occupant Fatalities
1
Off Airport Landing
Yes
Ditching
Yes
Causal Factor Group(s)
Group(s)
Aircraft Operation
Safety Recommendation(s)
Group(s)
None Made
Investigation Type
Type
Independent
Description
On 28th December 1997, a Boeing 747, operated by United Airlines, which had departed from Tokyo heading for Hawaii, encountered severe turbulence thought to have been associated with a Jet Stream over the Pacific Ocean.
Several passengers and crew members sustained serious injuries and one passenger subsequently died. Although Midway was possibly closer, the captain elected to return to Tokyo where the medical facilities were better. The aircraft did not sustain any structural damage but there was significant damage to fixtures and fittings in the cabin.
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Further Reading
- For further information, see the NTSB Final Report (DCA98MA015)
