A recent incident involving a Singapore Airlines flight has shed light on the hidden dangers of in-flight turbulence. On Tuesday, severe turbulence over the Indian Ocean led to the tragic death of a 73-year-old British passenger and left dozens of others injured.
While authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the passenger\u2019s death, initial reports suggest a possible heart attack. However, based on eyewitness accounts of the sharp descents and the number of injuries, experts highlight the significant safety risks that turbulence poses to both passengers and flight crews.
Although fatalities from turbulence are rare, the number of injuries has been increasing over the years. Meteorologists and aviation analysts are exploring the role of climate change in exacerbating unstable air conditions, which could lead to more frequent and severe turbulence encounters.
Most turbulence-related incidents are minor, and airlines continue to improve safety measures to reduce accident rates. Experts strongly advise passengers to always wear their seat belts to minimize the risk of injury during unexpected turbulence.
Understanding Turbulence
Turbulence occurs when unstable air moves unpredictably, often associated with heavy storms. The most dangerous type is clear-air turbulence, which lacks visible warnings and typically occurs near jet streams where wind shear disrupts the atmosphere.
Thomas Guinn, chair of the applied aviation sciences department at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, explains, \"When you get strong wind shear near the jet stream, it can cause the air to overflow, creating chaotic motions.\"
Injury Statistics and Safety Measures
Tracking global turbulence-related injuries is challenging, but data from the United States shows over one-third of airline incidents between 2009 and 2018 were turbulence-related, resulting in serious injuries for many. Flight attendants are particularly at risk as they are often moving around the cabin during flights.
Stuart Fox, director of flight and technical operations at the International Air Transport Association, notes that turbulence-related fatalities are extremely rare, especially on large aircraft. Standardized safety procedures, such as reviewing weather forecasts and suspending cabin service during rough air, have significantly reduced serious injuries.
Can Pilots Avoid Turbulence?
Pilots use weather radar and other tools to navigate around turbulence when possible. However, clear-air turbulence remains a challenge due to its sudden and unpredictable nature. Safety consultant Doug Moss emphasizes, \"Clear-air turbulence can be devastating because it catches everyone off-guard.\"
The Impact of Climate Change
Research suggests that climate change may be increasing the frequency and severity of turbulence. Paul Williams, a professor of atmospheric science at the University of Reading, states, “There is strong evidence that turbulence is increasing because of climate change.” Projections indicate that severe turbulence in jet streams could double or triple in the coming decades if global conditions continue to change.
Traveler Safety Tips
The primary recommendation from experts is simple: always keep your seat belt fastened when seated. \"Planes are generally built to withstand turbulence,\" Guinn advises. \"Wearing your seat belt is a quick and effective way to prevent injury.\"
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
