A Singapore Airlines flight experienced extreme, sudden turbulence Tuesday. One passenger died of a heart attack and 31 others were hospitalized.
Experts told KNX News this severe turbulence can be caused by climate change. Flights are being shaken with greater intensity and frequency than ever before. And this is just the start.
Laura Einsetler, a veteran commercial airline pilot, said technology allows pilots to find out in more detail any areas with convective activity or different air currents and pressures. She said this technology has probably saved tens of thousands of people from turbulence injuries.
“It can be very difficult sometimes. But as I said, you know, just being able to be as best prepared as possible. And of course, any time as pilots, we have the fasten seatbelt sign, and even when we don't, you always want to have your seatbelt sign, or sorry, your seatbelt on at all times during the flight for exactly situations that might arise, that we can't fully predict,” Einsetler said.
She said the type of turbulence that rattled the Singapore Airlines flight is extremely rare.
“The amazing thing is like how strong these aircraft are to be able to withstand a situation like this, the aircraft itself, you know, stayed intact, they were able to safely land and get everyone off to the hospital and on their way,” Einsetler said.
Despite the inside of the cabin being in disarray, the aircraft stayed strong and sturdy, she said.
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