On Thursday morning, 25 people were hospitalized after severe turbulence. Three aviation experts explain that a seatbelt provides enough protection against this, as long as passengers keep it fastened throughout the flight. “Unfortunately, flying objects are always possible.”
Cabin crew has more reason to worry about turbulence than passengers, aviation analyst Luk De Wilde tells NU.nl. If injuries occur, it’s usually flight attendants. This is because turbulence can arise very spontaneously, while they are, for example, serving coffee.
The experts agree that a seatbelt is sufficient to get through the turbulence safely. De Wilde: “The injuries you can sustain mainly arise from bumping into the ceiling or the wall. While a seatbelt keeps you firmly in place.” The only risk then is a falling coffee cart and flying objects and food, the aviation analyst explains.
According to aviation expert Benno Baksteen, little can be done about flying airplane meals. But there is also danger in things that people put in the aisle. Travelers should store these properly, not only for their own safety, but also for the safety of others, the experts emphasize.
You don’t have to fear rolling suitcases and weekend bags that fall out of the luggage compartments. The bins are designed to withstand heavy impacts. De Wilde: “The crew also consistently keeps an eye on whether they are properly closed. People sometimes want to take something out of their suitcase during the flight.”
The experts advise keeping your seatbelt fastened for the entire flight. Even if the air seems calm and there has not (yet) been a warning for turbulence. During the flight, the belt can be a bit looser, as long as it remains fastened. Then you will stay in place even in the event of spontaneous turbulence.
The most annoying thing for most passengers is the stress that comes with turbulence, says aviation expert Joris Melkert. “It’s quite scary, of course, let’s not beat around the bush.” Breathing calmly and realizing that the turbulence will pass is the most important thing, according to Melkert.