Turbulence Injures Seven Passengers

Air quality caused problems for passengers on a United Airlines flight from Australia to San Francisco. Bumpy air that is.

Flight 862 detoured to New Zealand today after seven passengers were hurt when the Boeing 747-400 hit severe turbulence.

United Airlines says the plane was about four hours into the flight when it hit severe “clear air” turbulence. Passengers say it lasted about 30 seconds.

The plane turned around and landed in Auckland, New Zealand. United says three passengers and one crew member have “cuts, bruises and lacerations.” Another member of the crew has multiple fractures and is in moderate condition. Two other passengers with minor injuries were treated by ambulance staff at the airport.

The flight was carrying 269 passengers. They´re being put up at a hotel in Auckland, and their flight will leave tomorrow.