B737 Next Generation Undifferentiated
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Type 783
Inflight Event / Encounter Wake Vortex Encounter
Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control; General Physical Injury / Incapacitation
Procedure; Environment - Non Weather Related
Climbing through FL330 enroute to FL350; about 20 minutes after takeoff with autopilot B engaged; aircraft began an uncommanded right hand turn. At approximately 25 degrees right bank; the First Officer disengaged the autopilot as the lateral mode (LNAV) reverted to CWS (Control Wheel Steering). After holding left control input for approximately 5 seconds the aircraft began to return to controlled flight; with associated moderate turbulence as we flew out of an apparent aircraft wake. We returned to smooth flight almost immediately. The seatbelt sign was on; but the flight attendants were up; prepping for their service. I called via interphone to the flight attendants to report their status. The two in the rear of the aircraft had been knocked to the floor and sustained bruises. The two in the front were uninjured. I asked the Lead FA to go check on their status and call back. I then called ATC (OAK Center); and reported the incident. Upon query; they stated the preceding aircraft was an A300; level at FL330. I then made a PA announcement to the passengers describing the causes of the wake turbulence.Report from Lead: FA #1 - working in rear cabin - Bruised ribsFA #2 - working in rear cabin - Bruised right knee and elbowFA #3 - working in forward galley - Contacted sidewall with left shoulder but no injuryNo passenger injuries.I spoke with both injured FAs and they were in good spirits; using ice and had taken an Aleve. Both said they were fine and willing and able to continue and perform their duties. I told them to continue to assess themselves and report any changes. I informed them I would ask for an update 1/3 of the way to our destination and that each could change their mind at any time and we would land and seek medical attention.I then contacted Dispatch via phone patch to inform them of our status and the wake turbulence event. I followed up with specifics via ACARS messages. Dispatch said they would pass the information along to appropriate personnel; including medical and FA supervisor to ensure the crew was evaluated prior to any subsequent flights. We were met at the gate with medical and company personnel to assist. The FAs were evaluated and given the ok to continue.
B737 Captain reported three flight attendants sustained minor injuries following a wake turbulence encounter climbing through FL330 with an A300 at FL330.