While travelling using a plane, there are instances where you will be suddenly jolted from your seat and you can be injured depending on the severity of the jolt.
The sudden jolting is referred to as turbulence and is caused by irregular atmospheric motion.
It is a common occurrence. On Wednesday, May 10, an Qatar Airline experienced such severe turbulence that caused injuries to passengers and the plane had to be diverted to safety.
Kenyans.co.ke compiled safety tips for passengers in case they encounter severe turbulence.
Choose seats wisely
You can prepare for turbulence at the onset when booking your passenger seat.
Studies have shown that the front of the plane typically experiences less turbulence as it is beyond the centre of gravity.
“The seats at the wing of the plane are also good, as the wings are what the plane uses for balance and turbulence is not felt as much in this area of the plane,” USA Today notes in an article on plane safety.
Safety Belts
In an earlier interview, renowned pilot Captain Irene Mutungi explained that the first thing pilots do in case of turbulence is turn on the “fasten seat belt” sign.
“Most turbulence-related injuries are to passengers who were not strapped in when clear-air turbulence occurred and were therefore violently thrown across the cabin or into the ceiling.
“Major injuries also can occur when passengers who are not wearing their seat belts are thrown into or on top of those who are,” Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advises plane passengers.
Securing luggage
In cases of severe turbulence, unsecured luggage and food carts can hit passengers due to sudden jolting.
Always make sure that there are no carts near you during times of turbulence and that your luggage is properly secured.
“Aluminium cans and laptops can become dangerous projectiles,” FAA warns.
