Twenty hurt as Emirates plane hits turbulence in South Africa

AT least 20 passengers were injured when an Emirates flight landed at Durban International Airport, South Africa, on Saturday.
The Emirates plane was flying from Dubai to Durban when it was struck by severe turbulence due to a storm, African news agency SABC News reports.

Passengers said that bags, trolleys and people were flung through the cabin and hit the ceiling and overhead lockers, the Aviation Herald reports.

A doctor provided first aid to the injured onboard, who were then treated by ambulances at the airport.

Eight people were taken to hospital, three suffered spinal injuries, one a broken hand and four others had minor injuries.

The aircraft departed for the return flight with a delay of four hours.

Damage to the plane included broken panels and seats, as well as wires hanging from the ceiling.

“EK775 from Dubai to Durban encountered a two-second period of severe turbulence prior to descent into Durban,” Emirates’ executive vice-president, Engineering and Operations, Adel Al Redha said in a statement.

“The fasten seatbelt sign was on at the time. Several passengers suffered minor injuries and the captain requested medical support to meet the aircraft upon landing.

“Five passengers opted to be transferred to hospital as a precautionary measure.

“The return flight, EK776, was delayed slightly while the aircraft underwent checks, in accordance with regulatory requirements following severe turbulence.

“Emirates places the highest importance on the safety of our passengers and staff.”

Transport Minister S’bu Ndebele has confirmed the incident and has praised the pilot’s actions.

An investigation will be launched into the incident.