Orbit: Is it because of the weather?

 

Turbulence is a term often heard in connection with plane accidents. A British citizen lost his life when a Singapore Airlines flight from London was shot down yesterday. Many passengers are being treated for injuries. With this, the term skydiving has become something to fear. Sudden changes in wind pressure and movement speed due to strong variations in atmospheric air flow will push and pull the aircraft. The term used for this is turbulence.

Air jets are common during most flights. Apart from the slight rocking of the plane, it can be violently picked up and hit and rock like the waves of the sea. But experts say accidents involving injuries to passengers are few and far between and deaths are rare.

The first thing passengers should do as soon as they board the plane is to fasten their seatbelts. Experts warn that seatbelt wearers are only likely to suffer minor injuries when thrown from the sky. There are reports that passengers of Singapore Airlines who were not wearing seat belts were seriously injured the other day.

Studies have shown that weather conditions also increase the risk of accidents involving aircraft. Normally, observing the weather before an aircraft takes off can identify the locations of air bubbles. So the pilot can be ready before reaching that point. Passengers will also be alerted and able to sit ready. But there will be turbulence that cannot be detected earlier. They mostly cause accidents.