Aviation officials from Asia are urging global action to reduce injuries caused by turbulence, with recent incidents highlighting the need for improved forecasting and data sharing across borders. These concerns are being discussed at the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) air navigation conference, which started on August 28, 2024, in Montreal and will continue through September 6, 2024.
Turbulence, while not often fatal, is the leading cause of accidents in aviation, according to data from the United Nations’ aviation agency. Experts warn that severe weather patterns driven by climate change could increase turbulence-related incidents. Countries like Japan, Korea, and Singapore are advocating for turbulence to be recognized as a distinct category in ICAO’s 2026 Global Aviation Safety Plan. This plan outlines priorities for the aviation sector, and a decision on this matter will be made by ICAO’s 193 member states at their triennial assembly next year.
Push for Better Data Sharing and Forecasting
In a report from Reuters, Asian countries are also pushing for real-time coordination of weather and turbulence data across borders. An official from Japan’s civil aviation bureau noted that improving the accessibility of this information for pilots is a key concern. Currently, turbulence alerts are often sent in text format, but some countries in Asia are working on making these alerts more visually accessible, which could enhance pilots’ ability to respond to turbulent conditions.
Turbulence accounted for around 40% of all accidents involving large aircraft in scheduled commercial operations last year, according to ICAO’s 2024 Annual Safety Report. This statistic underscores the importance of better forecasting and data sharing to prevent such incidents.
Proactive Measures by Airlines
In response to the rising concerns, some airlines in Asia are already taking proactive measures to address turbulence-related risks. All Nippon Airways (ANA) of Japan, although not mandated by the government, now voluntarily airs safety videos at the start and during flights to help prevent turbulence-related accidents. These videos aim to educate passengers on how to stay safe during unexpected turbulence.
Korean Air has also made adjustments to its in-flight services in response to increased turbulence incidents. In August 2024, the airline announced it would stop serving instant cup noodles, a popular snack in Korea known as ramyeon, on long-haul flights. The decision was made due to the risks associated with serving boiling water during flights that might encounter turbulence.
Asian aviation officials are advocating for global action to enhance turbulence safety, including better data sharing and forecasting. At the ongoing ICAO conference, these concerns are being addressed, with countries like Japan, Korea, and Singapore leading the call for turbulence to be added to ICAO’s 2026 Global Aviation Safety Plan. Airlines in Asia are already taking steps to mitigate turbulence-related risks.
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