British Man Dies in Severe Turbulence on Flight from Heathrow to Singapore
Turbulence is a common occurrence during air travel, often resulting in the seatbelt light turning on and passengers being advised to return to their seats. While it is typically mild and disregarded by passengers who continue to move around the cabin, yesterday’s incident serves as a reminder that turbulence can have devastating consequences.
A Singapore Airlines flight from Heathrow experienced severe turbulence, causing the aircraft to plummet 7,000ft in just six minutes. Passengers were thrown into the air, somersaulting and hitting the plane’s ceiling. Tragically, 73-year-old Geoffrey Kitchen is believed to have suffered a fatal heart attack during the turbulent episode.
So, what exactly causes turbulence? According to the Met Office, turbulence is the result of chaotic air movement that can abruptly shake an aircraft in flight. There are generally four types of turbulence, each caused by different factors. Thunderstorms, which can be predicted and observed from a distance, are one of the easier types to anticipate. Another type is caused by airwaves that form when aircraft come into contact with mountainous terrain. These waves crash onto the aircraft like ocean waves hitting a beach, making them somewhat predictable due to the surrounding topography. On the other hand, “clear-air” turbulence is harder to detect as there are no visible clouds. It can be caused by jet streams, which can create sudden vertical movements without warning. Lastly, “wake turbulence” is generated by aircraft themselves as a result of lift production.
While there are methods to estimate and forecast turbulence, it remains unpredictable and can seemingly appear out of nowhere. Even weather radar systems can struggle to detect it, according to Marco Chan, a senior lecturer in aviation operations at Buckinghamshire New University.
In conclusion, turbulence is an inherent risk in air travel that cannot be entirely avoided. Passengers should always heed warnings and remain in their seats, as the consequences can be severe, as seen in this tragic incident.
Turbulence: The Hidden Danger in the Skies
In a recent interview, a former pilot revealed the secrets behind how airlines navigate through turbulence. Mr. Chan, a seasoned aviator who previously worked for Hong Kong Airlines and Cathay Dragon, explained that pilots rely on their own experience and weather charts to anticipate areas of turbulence. However, he emphasized that they can only truly identify turbulence when they encounter it.
According to Mr. Chan, turbulence is becoming more frequent and stronger due to climate change. Extreme weather events worldwide contribute to this phenomenon. A study conducted in 2017 even suggested that the impact of turbulence could more than double in certain regions, especially at higher altitudes. Despite the potential dangers, incidents involving turbulence are relatively rare.
To mitigate the risks, airlines have implemented rigorous training for cabin crews. This ensures that they are well-equipped to handle turbulence effectively. Mr. Chan commended the industry for its proactive approach in managing this issue. He also highlighted that fatalities and injuries resulting from turbulence are uncommon.
While turbulence remains a hidden danger in the skies, passengers can take comfort in knowing that airlines prioritize their safety. By staying informed and prepared, both pilots and cabin crews work tirelessly to navigate through the challenges that turbulence presents.
