Heavy turbulence shakes up aircraft

HOUSTON -- Heavy turbulence shook a trans-Atlantic flight Wednesday, sending 28 people to hospitals after the Lufthansa jet reached its destination, Bush Intercontinental Airport. The injuries were not thought to be serious.

Lufthansa Flight 440, which originated from Frankfurt, Germany, experienced "some pretty bad turbulence," said Ernie DeSoto, spokesman for the airport.

It was not immediately known at what point in the flight the jet experienced the turbulence, he said.

The plane, with 244 passengers and 14 crew members on board, was met by several ambulances and fire trucks when it landed in Houston.

Some people beyond those taken to hospitals required first aid treatment at the scene.

"None of the injuries appear to be life-threatening," Lufthansa spokeswoman Jennifer Urbaniak said. Injuries included cuts and neck and back injuries.

There were initial reports the plane also suffered some structural damage, but maintenance personnel were still inspecting the aircraft late Wednesday, DeSoto said.