6 Actions to Avoid During Severe Airplane Turbulence

Turbulence can be a nerve-wracking experience for many passengers when flying, but there are steps you can take to stay safe and calm during unexpected bumps in the air. One tip from experts is to keep your seatbelt fastened, even if it’s not cinched all the way down. This way, if turbulence does occur, you can quickly tighten it for added security. Additionally, if you find yourself in the bathroom when turbulence hits, it’s best to stay put, finish up, and wait until it subsides before returning to your seat.

Another important precaution to take during turbulence is to avoid opening the overhead bins. It’s highly unlikely that turbulence will lead to an emergency water landing, so there’s no need to panic and retrieve your belongings. Leaving the bins closed will prevent heavy bags from falling on your head or someone else’s. Before the flight takes off, make sure to secure loose objects that could become airborne during turbulence, especially children’s toys. And if you happen to need something from the overhead bins, be sure to close them firmly after use.

Keeping your tray table closed during turbulence is also crucial for safety. Dr. Fischer advises passengers to avoid leaning on the tray for a quick nap, as any wobble could cause your head to hit the seat in front of you. It’s important to avoid straining your neck or posture by leaning forward to read or look at a laptop screen. Additionally, if you wear reading glasses, use them to avoid getting too close to the tray table, which could increase the risk of bumping your head during turbulence.

Lastly, it’s essential to remain calm during turbulence. While it can be unsettling, it’s important to remember that air travel is extremely safe. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, only a small number of passengers are seriously injured by turbulence each year out of millions who fly. Taking deep breaths and practicing relaxation techniques can help trigger your parasympathetic nervous system and counter the fight-or-flight response. Despite the occasional scary news stories about turbulence-related injuries, experts emphasize that commercial aviation has become incredibly safe with advanced forecasting tools.