*** NTSB: America West 757 hits severe turbulence

NTSB Identification: LAX00LA072 Scheduled 14 CFR 121 operation of AMERICA WEST AIRLINES INC. Accident occurred JAN-11-00 at LAS VEGAS, NV Aircraft: Boeing 757, registration: N909AW Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor, 42 Uninjured. On January 11, 2000, about 2151 hours mountain standard time America West Flight 2744, a Boeing 757, N909AW, encountered severe turbulence while cruising at 35,000 feet over Alamosa Colorado. America West Airlines Inc. operated the airplane as a domestic, scheduled passenger flight under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 121. The airline transport pilot rated captain co-pilot, 2 flight attendants, and 38 passengers were not injured; 1 flight attendant suffered minor injuries while another sustained serious injuries. The flight departed Columbus, Ohio, about 2036 eastern standard time and landed at its destination, Las Vegas Nevada, at 2227 Pacific standard time. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and an IFR flight plan was filed. The operator reported that air traffic control advised the crew of possible turbulent conditions, light to moderate chop, ahead. The captain illuminated the seat belt sign and requested everyone return to their seats. The flight attendants secured the cabin and began seating themselves when light turbulence was encountered. The airplane then encountered about 4 seconds of severe turbulence. Two flight attendants, who were not seated when the event began were lifted into the air and sustained their injuries when they fell back down and landed on armrests. http://www.ntsb.gov/aviation/LAX/00A072.htm