Encounters with extreme turbulence while in the air can be terrifying. Just recently, a severe incident highlighted the dangers of turbulence, resulting in the tragic death of a 73-year-old British man with a suspected heart condition and injuries to 30 others on a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Bangkok. Such incidents remind us that while flying is generally safe, turbulence can present serious risks.
In the past year alone, there have been numerous turbulence-related incidents, including one where eight passengers required medical assistance on a flight to Portugal, and another on a British Airways flight that encountered severe turbulence over the Bay of Bengal, forcing pilots to return to the airport. Even seasoned fliers can feel anxious during mid-flight bumps and shakes, but it’s important to understand that most cases are simply minor disturbances, akin to a bumpy car ride.
This article aims to unpack what causes turbulence, address frequently asked questions, and explore whether turbulence poses a genuine threat to aircraft safety. Understanding these factors can help ease anxiety for passengers and provide valuable insights into the aviation industry’s efforts to manage turbulence effectively.
What is Turbulence?
Turbulence is essentially caused by irregularities in airflow, comparable to waves becoming choppy at sea. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) defines clear-air turbulence (CAT) as sudden severe turbulence occurring in cloudless areas, leading to violent buffeting of aircraft. CAT can be particularly troublesome as it often occurs without any visual cues to alert pilots to potential hazards.
There are several primary causes of turbulence: thermal turbulence occurs when warm air rises through cooler air; mechanical turbulence happens when airflow is disrupted by natural or manmade structures, such as mountains; and shear turbulence occurs at boundaries where two air masses move in different directions. These conditions can cause aircraft to rise and fall or rock side to side.
Interestingly, thousands of planes encounter severe turbulence each year, costing the aviation industry up to $1 billion through flight delays and structural damage. This underscores the importance of understanding and managing turbulence effectively to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
Is Turbulence Normal?
Yes, turbulence is a normal aspect of flying. While it can feel unsettling, modern aircraft are engineered to withstand significant turbulence. Pilots are trained to anticipate turbulence based on weather and radar reports, allowing them to communicate with air traffic control and other pilots to prepare for bumpy conditions.
When turbulence is expected, pilots will often alert passengers and adjust the aircraft's speed to reduce the impact, a practice known as flying at “turbulence penetration speed.” This approach minimizes the risk of damage to the aircraft and provides a smoother experience for everyone on board.
Are We Seeing More Turbulence?
Research indicates that we are experiencing increased turbulence, largely due to global warming, which disrupts different layers of the atmosphere. Since 1979, wind shear in the jet stream has risen by approximately 15%, according to Dr. Paul D. Williams, a professor of atmospheric science. This suggests that clear-air turbulence may more than double by the mid-century, particularly affecting busy routes such as New York to London.
Can I Be Injured by Turbulence?
While injuries from turbulence can occur, the frequency is lower than many might assume. Data from the FAA shows that, on average, there are 33 turbulence-related injuries each year in the United States, with only 17 reported in 2017. Given that approximately 2.6 million passengers travel through U.S. airports daily, the likelihood of being injured due to turbulence is quite low.
What is the Best Thing to Do During Turbulence?
The best advice during turbulence is to always wear your seatbelt, just like the pilots do. Injuries often occur when passengers are not secured in their seats. It’s crucial to buckle up whenever you return from the restroom or move about the cabin. Following the flight attendants’ instructions during turbulent moments can significantly enhance your safety.
Could Turbulence Bring Down My Flight?
While turbulence can pose risks, it is very unlikely to lead to a flight's downfall. Senior aviation consultant Adrian Young emphasizes that, despite the potential for turbulence to contribute to accidents, modern engineering and technology have dramatically reduced these risks. Pilots now have access to advanced meteorological tools that provide accurate forecasts of turbulence, allowing them to navigate safely.
In conclusion, understanding turbulence is essential for both passengers and aviation professionals. By staying informed and following safety guidelines, passengers can feel more at ease when flying, knowing that airlines and pilots are well-equipped to handle these challenges.
