Turbulence often becomes a nightmare for many airline passengers. The shaking that occurs while the plane is flying through the air is certainly not a pleasant experience, especially for those who rarely fly or who have a fear of flying. However, in reality, turbulence is normal and generally not dangerous.
So, what should you do if turbulence occurs while you’re traveling? Check out the following explanation!
Try to Stay Calm and Don’t Panic
When the plane starts shaking, it’s natural to feel afraid. However, panicking can actually make the situation feel even more frightening. Remember that turbulence is rarely dangerous to the safety of the aircraft.
Try to breathe slowly and distract yourself by listening to music, reading, watching a movie, or engaging in other activities. The calmer you are, the more easily your body can adapt to the shaking that occurs.
Fasten Your Seat Belt
Always wear your seat belt while seated, even if the seat belt sign is off. This is not merely a precaution but a safety standard highly recommended by aviation experts.
Turbulence can occur suddenly without warning, making the seat belt an important safeguard to prevent you from being thrown or hitting the seat or other objects when the plane shakes.
Ensure your seat belt is fastened snugly but remains comfortable and loose enough for you to move freely.
Trust and Follow the Cabin Crew’s Instructions
The cabin crew, including pilots and flight attendants, are professionally trained to handle various emergency situations on the plane, including turbulence. If they give instructions over the intercom, listen carefully. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you feel confused or frightened.
The cabin crew will also ensure the cabin remains safe. They will secure any items that could fall and injure passengers and may postpone meal service if turbulence occurs.
Protect Your Head if Necessary
In severe turbulence, you may be advised to bend forward and protect your head. Do this by leaning your body forward until your head is close to your knees, then cover your head with your hands or a pillow. This position helps minimize the risk of head injuries if sudden shaking occurs.
Avoid Hot, Alcoholic, or Caffeinated Drinks
During turbulence, it’s best to avoid consuming hot drinks like coffee or tea, as they could spill and cause burns. Additionally, alcoholic beverages are not recommended because they can worsen feelings of anxiety or make it harder for you to control your emotions. Meanwhile, caffeine can increase feelings of restlessness.
Instead, choose plain water. Water helps keep your body hydrated without triggering excessive anxiety. This way, you can feel calmer and more comfortable during the flight, even if turbulence occurs.
Immediately Bend Down if Standing on the Plane
If you’re standing—perhaps on your way to the restroom or retrieving something from the overhead compartment—and turbulence suddenly happens, hold onto the nearest seat or cabin wall to stay stable.
If the shaking is strong, it’s better to bend down to maintain your balance, then return to your seat as soon as possible and fasten your seat belt. Avoid walking in the aisle during turbulence to reduce the risk of falling or bumping into objects.
Facing turbulence can indeed make your heart race, especially for those who aren’t used to flying. However, by staying calm and following proper safety steps, you can have a more comfortable and safe air journey.
Remember, turbulence is normal and rarely endangers a flight. So there’s no need to panic—keep your seat belt fastened, follow the crew’s instructions, and enjoy your journey to your destination!
