Airline turbulence
Randy Mann.
JAKE PARRISH/Press
With all of these wild weather patterns across the globe, it should be no surprise that we’re hearing more about airline turbulence. Most of us heard about the recent turbulence disaster with a Singapore Airlines flight May 21 from London to Singapore. While cruising at 37,000 feet, it was determined that the plane suffered a “rapid change” in gravitational force that resulted in a sudden drop of over 177 feet in about 4 seconds. This force resulted in many injuries and one death as passengers were thrust upward in the airline cabin. The plane did descend 6,000 feet, but it was a controlled descent as it needed to divert to Bangkok for an emergency landing.
For those who fly, turbulence is very common but can lead to flight anxiety. We will feel these “bumps” when the aircraft moves through the air that is “chaotic” and “disturbed.” Most of the turbulence experienced from flying is usually over mountains, near storms, and moving through upper-level jet streams. The currents of air are like a fluid that can move up and down. It can also change direction and speed, which results in frequent airline turbulence.
Become a Subscriber!
You have read all of your free articles this month. Select a plan below to start your subscription today.
Already a subscriber? Login
