Turbulence is the reason for inflight injuries of crew and
passengers. Turbulence is defined as follows :
Light turbulence--- Light turbulence - briefly causes
slight, erratic changes in altitude and/or attitude, slight strain against seat
belts, little or no diffuculty in walking, service may be conducted.
Moderate turbulence - similar to light turbulence, but greater
intensity. Changes in altitude/attitude occur. Aircraft remains in control at
all times. Variations in indicated air speed. Occupants feel strain against
seat belts, unsecured objects are dislodged, service and walking is difficult.
Severe turbulence - large, abrupt changes in altitude/attitude.
Large variation in indicated airspeed. Aircraft may be temporarily out of
control. Occupants are forced violently against seat belts, unsecured objects
are tossed about, service and walking are impossible.
Extreme turbulence - aircraft is violently tossed about and is
impossible to control. May cause structural damage.
There have been numerous incidents/ accidents associated with
turbulence and associated factors. Recent one to have turbulence
associated injuries is Qantas 32 A380 from London to Sydney over
India Ocean. Despite having seatbelts turned on, announcement done, the
passengers non compliance to use seatbelts, have resulted in
injuries of passengers.
How can we the industry address this problem??
Following initiatives and procedures if reinforced will help
spread awareness and compliance, and avoid passengers from getting injured in
future and make air safe travel.
- Preflight weather briefing can help in identifying areas of suspected turbulence to the flight path and the information passed on to cabin crew during briefing.
- Seat belts shall be switched on when turbulence is anticipated or encountered, to ensure safety is not compromised.
- PA announcement from both flight and cabin crew will help in preparing the passengers for the turbulence.
- Airline SOP and compliance by flight and cabin crew addressing the seatbelts and turbulence scenario
- It is advisable to switch on seatbelts and make an announcement when anticipating or encountering turbulence, and monitor compliance by passengers to ensure safety is assured.
Write in to us with your views on seatbelts usage and reinforcing
it especially during turbulence scenario.
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