Austin, Texas, August 30, 2025
News Summary
A United Express flight operated by SkyWest faced severe turbulence en route from Aspen to Houston, prompting a diversion to Austin. Two passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were hospitalized. The aircraft experienced a dramatic altitude drop, leading to the need for medical assistance upon landing. The incident highlights the unpredictability of turbulence and the need for strict safety protocols during flights.
Austin, Texas – A United Express flight, operated by SkyWest Airlines, was diverted to Austin on August 28 after encountering severe turbulence, resulting in two passengers being hospitalized. The flight, designated SkyWest flight 5971, was on its way from Aspen, Colorado to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) when the turbulence struck approximately 90 minutes into the flight.
At the time of the incident, there were 39 passengers and 4 crew members aboard the Embraer E170-200LR aircraft, also referred to as the E175. Flight data indicates that the plane experienced a sudden drop of about 4,000 feet within just a minute during the turbulence, which led to a subsequent rapid descent of over 25,000 feet before landing safely at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Audio recordings from air traffic control captured the pilot’s request for medical assistance, noting that a stretcher would be needed and that there were reports of bleeding among passengers. Paramedics transported two adult passengers to nearby hospitals, though their injuries were classified as non-life-threatening. Following the incident, medical personnel evaluated all passengers and crew members on board, ensuring their well-being after the turbulent experience.
SkyWest Airlines confirmed that no critical injuries were anticipated, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently conducting an investigation into the matter. Turbulence, described as an unpredictable weather event, can result from numerous factors including storm systems and air currents created by mountainous terrain.
An airport spokesperson indicated that injuries sustained during the incident were likely a direct result of the severe turbulence experienced during the flight. The Embraer E175 aircraft involved was delivered to SkyWest in 2014 and is part of a fleet recognized for its performance and reliability.
This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of air travel and the importance of safety measures aboard commercial flights. Although turbulence is common in aviation, events of this nature highlight the need for precautionary measures for both passengers and crew members to mitigate risks during severe weather conditions.
Background on Turbulence and Flight Safety
Turbulence is a common phenomenon in aviation, often linked to atmospheric conditions that can lead to sudden changes in altitude and speed. It is generally caused by the movement of air masses around various geographical features such as mountains or as a result of storm systems. Pilots are trained to handle these situations, but severe turbulence can still pose risks, necessitating strict adherence to safety protocols.
As air travel continues to evolve with increasing passenger numbers, air safety remains a top priority for airlines and regulatory bodies. Incidents of severe turbulence, though rare, underline the importance of robust training for flight crews and the implementation of safety measures to ensure the well-being of all aboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the turbulence on Flight 5971?
The turbulence experienced on Flight 5971 was due to unpredictable weather conditions, which can result from storm systems and air currents created by mountainous terrain.
Were there any injuries as a result of the turbulence?
Yes, two adult passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to local hospitals as a precaution.
What type of aircraft was involved in the incident?
The aircraft involved was an Embraer E170-200LR, commonly known as the E175, which was delivered to SkyWest Airlines in 2014.
Is the FAA investigating the incident?
Yes, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the severe turbulence encountered during the flight.
Key Features of Incident
| Date | Flight Number | Origin | Destination | Casualties | Aircraft Type | Operator | Investigation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 28, 2023 | Flight 5971 | Aspen, Colorado | Houston, Texas | 2 Non-life-threatening Injuries | Embraer E175 | SkyWest Airlines | Under Investigation by FAA |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Flightradar24
- Wikipedia: Turbulence
- CNN
- Google Search: SkyWest Flight 5971 turbulence
- People
- Google Scholar: aviation turbulence
- CBS News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: turbulence
- FOX 26 Houston
- Google News: SkyWest Flight 5971 turbulence
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
