Full Breakdown
NTSB Report Reveals Air Traffic Control Lapse in United Airlines Turbulence Incident
2/12/2026, 7:29:19 AM
Incident Overview
On February 10, 2024, United Airlines Flight 1890, a Boeing 777 traveling from Los Angeles to Newark Liberty International Airport, encountered severe turbulence during its descent, resulting in significant injuries to three flight attendants. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a final report detailing the incident, which highlighted a failure by an air traffic controller to relay a critical turbulence warning to the flight crew.
Contributing Factors
The NTSB's investigation, which spanned two years, found that the flight crew had reviewed weather forecasts and monitored onboard weather tools prior to the incident. However, they lacked a real-time Pilot Weather Report (PIREPs) warning of turbulence ahead, which limited their ability to prepare for the hazardous conditions. The aircraft flew into unstable air despite forecasts indicating thunderstorms and unsettled weather in the region. The onboard radar and weather systems did not indicate significant turbulence along the descent path.
Approximately three minutes before Flight 1890 encountered turbulence, another aircraft reported moderate turbulence to an air traffic controller in Boston. This report was not communicated to the United Airlines crew, as the controller was engaged in other tasks and failed to follow Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) procedures requiring the dissemination of such warnings.
Impact on Crew and Passengers
The turbulence was so severe that it caused flight attendants to be thrown around the cabin, resulting in serious injuries. One flight attendant suffered a spinal fracture after being propelled into the ceiling and then crashing to the floor. Two others lost consciousness, sustaining major injuries, including a shattered femur and head trauma. Passengers, including an adult in a lavatory and an infant being held, were also thrown upward due to the sudden jolt.
Official Statements & Responses
The NTSB emphasized that its investigations aim to understand incidents and enhance transportation safety rather than assign blame or determine legal liability. The report clarified that findings cannot be used as evidence in civil lawsuits related to the incident. Newark Liberty International Airport declined to comment on the report, and inquiries to the National Air Traffic Controllers Association for a statement remain pending.
Criticism & Opposition
The failure to relay the turbulence warning raises concerns about air traffic control practices and the potential for legal liability due to negligence. Critics argue that such lapses in communication can jeopardize passenger safety and call for stricter adherence to FAA protocols regarding the sharing of PIREPs.
What's Next
The NTSB's findings may prompt further discussions on improving air traffic control communication protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. Enhanced training and adherence to established procedures could be critical in safeguarding against turbulence-related injuries.
