Cathay Pacific flight CX156 hits severe turbulence, injures 10

Ten passengers and crew were injured when Cathay Pacific flight CX156 from Brisbane to Hong Kong encountered severe turbulence early on Saturday morning. The flight, which departed Brisbane, experienced the violent episode mid-journey, with one passenger describing it as like 'free-falling from a drop tower.' Video footage showed food and debris scattered across the cabin floor. Cathay Pacific confirmed that six cabin crew and four passengers sustained minor injuries, and eight of them were sent to hospital for further medical care. The aircraft landed safely at Hong Kong International Airport at 6:35am, where medical personnel boarded immediately to assess and treat those affected. Airport Authority officials had pre-positioned fire and ambulance services after receiving a distress notification around 6am.

The incident highlights the persistent dangers of clear-air turbulence, which can strike without warning even on modern aircraft. While no life-threatening injuries were reported, the event caused significant distress among passengers and crew. Cathay Pacific stated they are providing support to the injured and cooperating with authorities on any follow-up investigations. This is the latest in a series of high-profile turbulence incidents globally, underscoring the need for improved detection technology and passenger awareness of seatbelt usage even when the sign is off.