Summary
Turbulence during flights is becoming more frequent and severe. Experts say climate change is causing changes in the atmosphere that may make air travel bumpier in the future. Severe turbulence already accounts for a significant portion of injuries in air travel.
Key Facts
- Severe turbulence on a flight can cause the plane to drop suddenly, leading to injuries.
- There have been four reported deaths from turbulence since 1981.
- In the United States, 207 people have been severely injured by turbulence since 2009.
- Climate change is affecting atmospheric conditions, increasing turbulence frequency and severity.
- Severe turbulence affects around 5,000 flights each year out of over 35 million global flights.
- Nearly 40% of serious injuries to passengers in 2023 were caused by turbulence.
- The North Atlantic route has experienced a 55% increase in severe turbulence over the last 40 years.
- Different types of turbulence include convective (from thunderstorms), orographic (near mountains), and clear-air (sudden wind changes).
