Turbulence on the airplane
What is turbulence?
The word turbulence comes from the Latin turbulentĭa and refers to the condition of something that is turbulent (disordered or agitated). An airplane can be said to experience turbulence when it moves violently due to changes in speed and direction of air currents. When the air particles become disorganized, disturbances appear, usually in the form of swirling.
What causes turbulence?
Turbulence is caused by different weather situations. The most common cause is cloud formations (more precisely: vertically developed clouds), storms, and air currents over mountains or in jet stream areas. Wind shear is another weather phenomenon that can affect flight, which involves a sharp variation in wind intensity and direction. Another type of issue that can occur during flight is turbulence generated directly by the airplane itself. This happens when large masses of air collide with the wingtips of the aircraft. In all cases, pilots conduct rehearsals and simulations to handle any situation that arises.
When and where is turbulence most frequent?
During night flights or flights very early in the morning, turbulence is rare since air currents tend to be smoother at those times. However, if we fly during the day, it's possible to experience movement during the flight.
Turbulence typically occurs at low altitudes that are common for short-haul trips, but some long-haul flights are not exempt. There is a likelihood of turbulence when flying over India or the Middle East.
Types of turbulence
There are three types of turbulence that are clearly identifiable:
- Light turbulence: This is a small, almost unpredictable movement of the airplane that would even allow us to stand up without difficulty.
- Moderate turbulence: This movement is predictable and would prevent us from standing in the airplane; we could fall.
- Severe turbulence: This is the most serious of the three, where the airplane moves so much that we would feel as though we are glued to our seats, or that we 'fly' upward, detached from our seats.
Is turbulence dangerous?
We must understand that turbulence does not pose a significant safety issue for the airplane. However, as is common with the unknown, it is normal for passengers to become frightened or even experience motion sickness.
There is no need to fear turbulence, as airplanes are designed to withstand even the most severe turbulence. In addition to being well-trained to face these challenges, pilots have strategies for dealing with turbulence. Reducing speed and changing altitude are some of these strategies.
Although they are not completely accurate because nature is unpredictable and weather can change at any moment, there are forecasts and sensors installed in some cockpits that help detect turbulence and its intensity.
Inside the airplane, there are factors that make turbulence more or less noticeable. For example, seats that are located near the airplane's center of gravity and wings experience less turbulence compared to those in the tail section, where turbulence is felt the most. It is also important to consider that the larger the airplane and the seat, the less we will notice turbulence.
In these cases, is using a seatbelt important?
Just as we use a seatbelt in a car, the same should apply in an airplane. In situations of severe turbulence, the seatbelt can save your life or prevent injuries caused by the aircraft's movement. If entering an area of turbulence, the pilot will announce over the intercom what is happening and what measures to take.
Tips for coping with turbulence
If you are someone who fears flying, especially if turbulence occurs, relax; you have seen that it is not dangerous and that by following certain tips, you can face it calmly and enjoy a pleasant flight. Here are some simple tricks that anyone can follow to help ensure an uninterrupted journey.
Go to the bathroom before takeoff
If you are taking a short flight, this tip can be very useful. Go to the bathroom before the airplane takes off so that you won't have to get up during the flight. This way, you can avoid feeling nauseous during slight movements or even getting stuck in the bathroom during turbulence. If this happens, hold on to the handles to prevent falling.
Choose your seat wisely
If you have the option, select a well-positioned seat. The window seat can often make you feel safer. If you have a fear of flying, avoid the emergency exits, as anxiety might interrupt a possible evacuation.
Learn about turbulence
Generally, we fear the unknown, so it is advisable to inform yourself about what turbulence is before boarding the airplane. You will realize they are less dangerous than they appear!
Use your seatbelt and keep small items stored
If you find yourself in an area of turbulence, keep your seatbelt fastened to avoid bumps, falls, and nausea. Also, store your personal belongings to prevent them from flying around if the airplane experiences severe movements.
Hydration, distraction, and breathing
Finally, remember these three factors. Throughout the trip, keep your body hydrated and try to distract yourself with activities (you can read, watch a movie, or listen to music). In stressful situations, try to control your breathing to avoid a panic situation.