Pilot reveals 3 key mistakes passengers make when there's turbulence on a plane

Turbulence during a flight can be quite scary for passengers, but one pilot has revealed that there are three key mistakes flyers make on planes that can actually make it a lot worse.

Although it can feel stomach-churning, in the majority of cases, turbulence isn't actually dangerous and usually just means you'll have a few spilled drinks or dropped belongings. However, according to one pilot, passengers who ignore one warning could actually be putting themselves in harm's way.

Retired commercial airline pilot Richard Wells, 54, revealed that people often unbuckle their seatbelt just because the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is off. He told Ski Vertigo: "Just because the light's off doesn’t mean it’s smooth flying. I've seen passengers thrown upwards during sudden drops because they weren’t strapped in."

Turbulence occurs when the aircraft hits strong wind currents that can push or pull the plane. Most of the time it can be detected by radars, but there is also 'clear air turbulence' that isn't picked up, and therefore can occur without warning even when skies appear fine. So if you don't have your seatbelt buckled, you may get thrown around more than your fellow travellers.

This is why most pilots recommend keeping your seatbelt loosely fastened at all times when seated, not just during turbulence or announcements. In fact, data shows that the majority of turbulence-related injuries involve passengers or crew who weren't secured.

Unsurprisingly, getting out of your seat during turbulence is not recommended, but some people still choose to ignore the warnings to go to the toilet, or get something out from the overheard lockers.

Richard warned: "If the seatbelt sign is on, don’t get up—no matter how quick you think it’ll be. We’ve had people lose their balance, fall into others, or get hit by objects falling from the compartments." If you need to move, for example for a medical reasons, he recommends waiting for the crew's guidance.

Of course when turbulence does happen it can be terrifying, but panicking won't help. In fact, it could make the experience that little bit worse for you. "Turbulence feels dramatic, but planes are built to handle it. It’s no more than a bump in the road, structurally," Richard explained.

"When passengers scream or panic, it creates unnecessary tension throughout the cabin." He suggests breathing deeply, relaxing your posture, and distracting yourself with music, a book or light conversation. In more severe turbulence, brace gently against the seat in front if advised, and always follow crew instructions.

Ultimately, if you've got your seatbelt fastened and you listen to the crew, it can keep any stress to a minimum. If you do face a bumpy ride, it doesn't mean you need to instantly worry. "Planes are engineered for far worse than the turbulence most passengers experience," Richard reassured. "It’s not dangerous, it’s discomforting. The key is staying buckled and level-headed."

Have you experienced scary turbulence on a flight? Email us at [email protected]