Updated 1058 (LONDON):  A revised statement has been issued clarifying the numbers of injured and their condition.

Some more turbulence in the industry, this time it was the real thing.  As Northwest Flight 2 from Manila to Tokyo Narita was approaching its final destination the aircraft experienced what is being described by some passengers as “serious” turbulence.   The Boeing 747-400 had on board 408 passengers and 14 crew members and landed at approximately 12:40 local time, with a scheduled arrival time of 12:18.  

The aircraft landed safely at Narita airport, and the pilot had not declared an emergency of any kind after experiencing the turbulent air.   This may have been due to the cabin crew having not yet fully assessed the extent and number of injuries, and the aircraft was already on final approach to the destination airport which could provide appropriate care. 

 Currently, weare receiving revised number of those injured and their condition.   In a telephone  statement from the Delta Press Office, they advise that there were “over forty have been taken to hospital upon arrival and 4 of them are hospitalised.”.   The Japanese Emergency authorities had been quoted by as saying that “three passengers have suffered severe” injuries.    We are also still unclear as to how many of the injured are actually cabin crew versus passengers. 

The airline has also confirmed that the aircraft was deplaned normally at Narita’s Terminal One.  

The text of the latest combined Delta/Northwest Press Office Statement is as follows:

Northwest flight #2 traveling from Manila  Feb. 20 experienced severe turbulence upon approach to Narita airport.  The  plane, a B747-400 with 408 passengers and 14 crew members on board, landed  safely.  Over 40 passengers were sent to hospitals upon arrival and 4 of them are hospitalized. The details are under investigation.  The  safety of our passengers and crew is Northwest’s number one  priority.