Date: 201809
Local time of day: 0601-1200
Location: MSP.Airport, MN
Flight conditions: VMC
Weather elements / visibility: Turbulence
Light: Daylight
Aircraft: Regional Jet 900 (CRJ900)
Operator: Air Carrier
Operating under: Part 121
Flight plan: IFR
Mission: Passenger
Flight phase: Descent
Airspace: Class B MSP
ATC / advisory: TRACON M98
Reporter organization: Air Carrier
Reporter function: Pilot Flying
Second reporter function: Captain; Pilot Not Flying
Anomaly: Inflight Event / Encounter Weather / Turbulence
Detector: Person Flight Crew
When detected: In-flight
Result: Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Contributing factors: Weather
Primary problem: Weather

Narrative: I was PF (Pilot Flying) on Aircraft X from MSP. After takeoff dispatch advised us of a reroute into MSP for weather. Our new route took us North of a weather system that was passing southeast over MSP. We had our weather radar on as we monitored the weather south of our position. Dispatch advised us to expect moderate turbulence below 10;000' for our approach into MSP. The CA/PM (Captain/ Pilot Monitoring) advised the passengers and FAs (Flight Attendants) to expect turbulence during the descent and had the FAs take their seats. We continued to monitor the weather with our radar and turned on continuous ignition for the descent. Approximately 35 minutes from landing ATC told us to expect moderate turbulence during the descent and on downwind to 30L. The CA/PM again advised the passengers and FAs of the expected turbulence. ATC had us fly 190 KIAS for most of the descent and we had flaps 8 selected. Passing 10;000' in VMC conditions airspeed became challenging to manage with +/-15kt variations; at one point we abruptly lost 25kts and 300' in altitude. Both the CA/PM and I were forcefully pushed up against our restraints. I continued to manage the flight controls as the CA/PM managed the FCP (Flight Control Panel). Again the CA/PM checked in with the FAs to makes sure the FAs and passengers were okay; they passengers and FAs were fine. The CA/PM notified ATC of the severe turbulence and sent a quick ACARS message to dispatch. Upon being vectored to final and below 5000' we entered the weather and the air smoothed out. The ILS 30L approach to minimums and landing was conducted normally. Upon arrival at the gate the CA notified [Operations Control] and maintenance of the severe turbulence encounter and logged the event in the forms.[I would suggest a] training program on characteristics and how to differentiate light vs. moderate vs. severe turbulence.


Second narrative: I was PM (Pilot Monitoring) Aircraft X. The flight was very normal and we were put on an arrival to allow us to arrive in MSP north of a line of thunderstorms that were tracking to the southeast and were already north of the airport at this point. Weather Radar was operating as well. About 35 minutes out the center controller advised another flight of moderate turbulence below 25;000 ft continuing all the way into MSP. Our dispatcher also advised us of moderate turbulence from 10;000 ft to 6;000 ft. At this point I called the flight attendants and told them to prepare the cabin and let them know it will be bumpy. I also made a PA advising the passengers to remain seated the rest of the flight. Continuous Ignition was put on at this point. The reports were correct and once on with Minneapolis approach they advised us of potential severe turbulence at 9;000 ft. I passed this information along to the Flight Attendants and she advised me they were all seated. We passed through 9;000 ft and it was moderate turbulence. ATC had slowed us to 190kts and we lowered the flaps to 8 degrees. Passing through 8;000 ft the airspeed became very hard to manage and was +/-15kts and at one point dropping to -25kts. At the same time we descended 200-300ft in altitude abruptly. I was lifted from my seat while still strapped into the harness. As the First Officer managed the flight controls I assisted by operating the FCP (Flight Control Panel). Airspeed was almost impossible to manage. Weather was VMC. I reported the event to ATC and once clear of the turbulence sent dispatch an ACARS. Below 6;000 ft the rest of the flight was normal with smooth air. Upon landing I called dispatch and reported it to maintenance. I also reported the event in the maintenance log. After speaking with the Fleet Manager I feel it would be of great benefit to show a quick demonstration the signs of severe turbulence. It is usually quite rare unless you plan on flying through a thunderstorm. I think it would be beneficial because I was shown this during my upgrade when we had a few minutes to spare. There are a lot of new captains who may not have experienced a lot of weather.


Synopsis: CRJ-900 flight crew reported encountering turbulence on descent.