Flying is considered the safest method of transport, with data from MIT in 2024 showing that the risk of fatality from flying is one per 13.7 million passengers. However, after recent aircraft incidents and reported cases of severe turbulence, some people may feel anxious.
Pilots undergo extensive training to deal with bad weather and turbulence. For instance, Captain Nick Heard, a pilot trainer at Skyborne Airline Academy, explains that pilots are exposed to low crosswinds from the start of flying training, which is around six years before becoming a full captain. Pilots use various techniques, such as “crabbing,” where they intentionally point the nose of the aircraft into the wind with just the right angle and power to stop the aircraft drifting away from the centre line of the runway.
Weather forecasts play a crucial role in planning flights. Pilots rely on data on local weather conditions at airports, severe weather along the way, high-level winds, and areas of turbulence. They also take advantage of jet streams, which can save fuel and time on long-distance routes.
However, climate change is affecting turbulence patterns. Scientists have found that severe turbulence in the North Atlantic has increased by 55% from 1979 to 2020. To mitigate this, pilots communicate with each other when encountering unexpected areas of turbulence and take measures to make the flight as smooth as possible.
As passengers, it’s essential to follow safety instructions from cabin crew, such as strapping in when the seat belt sign is on. While turbulence can be frightening, pilots are trained to deal with it and keep us safe. With their expertise and equipment, flying through bad weather has become safer over time.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/weather/articles/c5y05v7j5eko