JetBlue A320 encounters unexpected severe turbulence; NTSB releases final report

The aircraft's autopilot and auto thrust systems were engaged when it encountered turbulence at 03:36:20 local time. The pilots reported entering an area of severe turbulence without prior warnings from their radar.

Data from the flight data recorder showed variations in pitch angle, roll angle, and vertical acceleration during the event. The A320 climbed significantly within a short time span before returning to its assigned altitude after exiting the turbulent zone.

The NTSB found no Significant Meteorological Information advisories or signs of clear air turbulence before or during the incident. However, satellite data indicated a cloud pattern consistent with convective activity at the accident location.

“An approximately 2-minute portion of the accident aircraft’s flight path (south-to-north) across the cloud pattern consistent with convective activity reveals that the accident aircraft flew across the coldest portion of the cloud, which was at a brightness temperature of -55°C.”

Following this encounter, JetBlue's A320 continued its journey and landed safely in Fort Lauderdale at 05:18:27. Post-incident analysis confirmed that while onboard radar tests showed no faults, external testing by manufacturers confirmed all system requirements were met.

In total, nine individuals sustained injuries during this incident including two flight attendants with minor injuries and four passengers who suffered serious injuries. The NTSB concluded that unexpected convectively induced turbulence was responsible for this occurrence.