Guide for Passengers on How to Deal with Turbulence

Turbulence is one of the most unpleasant parts of flying for many passengers and even flight attendants. Like driving a car over a rocky road, airplanes hit bumpy spots in the sky. While turbulence is not dangerous, many people still fear a bumpy ride. Fortunately, there are seats on the plane where passengers may feel more at ease. Here are some tips and advice on how you can deal with turbulence, especially if it will be your first time to ride a plane.

The Best Seat Where Turbulence is Less Felt

The best seat on the plane to avoid turbulence is either over the wings or towards the front of the aircraft. The wings of the plane keep it balanced and smooth, whereas the tail of the aircraft can bounce up and down more. The closer a passenger is to the front of the plane the less turbulence they would usually feel. If a traveler sits towards the front of the wings so that the engines are behind them, not only will they feel less turbulence, but they’ll also have a quieter flight. Flying may not always be the most comfortable mission. However, making the most of it by picking the right seat (typically between rows 10 and 30) and coming prepared can make all the difference by having a relaxed flight.

Turbulence is caused mainly by disturbances in the airflow. Weather-related issues such as high winds, clouds, or a storm can cause turbulence. Mountain ranges or random pockets of air can also cause a few bumps. Often, pilots can detect when there will be turbulence and will notify the cabin crew as well as the passengers to return to their seats and fasten their seatbelts. The most severe occurrences of turbulence are incredibly rare, and pilots generally encounter around five minutes of severe turbulence during 10,000 hours of flight.

Trust Your Pilots

It’s important to know that the pilots are highly trained to deal with these factors and will try their best to ensure a smooth flight. Nonetheless, it’s not the passenger that is most at risk of injury during turbulence. Crew members are more at risk. Often in the aisles or galleys when an unexpected occurrence occurs, broken ankles or head trauma have been experienced by flight attendants over the years. This is why passengers are ordered to keep their seatbelts fastened when pockets arrive. Regardless of where a passenger is in the cabin, they should be safe if their seatbelt is kept properly fastened.

When booking a flight, choosing the right seat can make a huge difference in how a passenger experiences turbulence. If possible, reserve seats near the front of the plane, preferably over the wings. These areas of the plane experience less turbulence due to their proximity to the center of gravity. Seats at the front of the cabin also benefit from being closer to the flight crew, who are responsible for monitoring turbulence and keeping passengers informed.

More Tips

One other option is to consider booking a seat in the business or first-class cabin. These seats are typically located towards the front of the plane and provide more space, better service, and additional amenities. While more expensive, they can be worth the investment for those who prioritize a comfortable, relaxed flight experience.

For passengers who want to ensure maximum comfort during a flight, bringing along a few travel accessories can also help. Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can help block out the sound of turbulence, while a comfortable neck pillow or eye mask can help passengers sleep through any bumps.

Finally, it’s important to stay calm during turbulence. While it can be nerve-wracking, it’s important to remember that turbulence is a natural occurrence in the air. Trust in the pilots and flight crew to ensure a safe and comfortable flight, and focus on relaxing and enjoying the journey. With the right preparation and mindset, even the bumpiest of flights can be an enjoyable experience.