Turbulence slammed Hawaiian Airlines flight because of decision to fly over storm cell, report says

The National Transportation Safety Board's report on a Hawaiian Airlines incident has revealed a serious safety oversight. On December 18, 2022, a flight from Phoenix to Honolulu experienced severe turbulence when the crew opted to fly directly over a storm cell instead of changing course. This decision led to injuries among passengers and crew, with accounts describing turbulence comparable to a volcanic explosion. One passenger reported being thrown against the lavatory ceiling, and significant cabin damage was noted. Prior forecasts had indicated unstable atmospheric conditions and isolated thunderstorms, which the crew ignored.

The report stresses the crew's failure to heed meteorological warnings, critical for passenger safety. These findings serve as a reminder of the necessity of prioritizing safety protocols in aviation, and Hawaiian Airlines has been urged to review its operational procedures to prevent future incidents.