Is the turbulence zone dangerous?

It is known that a small shake is useful for the body. Maybe it's true if only you are not on the plane.

Many people have a hard time when the flight experiences some turbulence. However, it is quite a normal part of the journey and it shouldn't stop you from taking the plane to discover new and exciting parts of the world. 

Turbulence is something that all travelers are familiar with. For the most part, it is not the most pleasant experience. This zone conjures up dreadful images in the passenger's imagination, as well as a wave of terror and sometimes a shivering sensation. Is it, however, worthwhile to be concerned about it? Is the turbulence harmful and in what areas? Answers will be provided this post.

The density of the atmosphere is affected by regular fluctuations in air flows, temperature, pressure, wind speed, and direction. The airplane starts to tremble in the areas where this happens the most.

It can be a slight swing or a strong shaking. The reasons for their occurrence are:

• intersection of flows of different density
• swirling from the ends of the wings which fly ahead
• partial heating of the earth's surface

Turbulence, according to some, happens when an airplane passes through clouds. This isn't the case. Thunderclouds and cumulus clouds are the only clouds that may increase the weight on the plane, causing it to wobble. However, because they are readily visible on the locator, the pilots choose to ignore them. The pilot creates a path in advance of the flight based on weather forecast data. You are less likely to encounter turbulence on short flights because the route is more predictable and visible, so it is easier to avoid large clouds that could cause the plane to shake.

Errors occur only in long-distance flights. How strong shaking will be felt depends on the aircraft: small and light ones are swinging more, huge and heavy liners are more stable.

Human factor

Passengers' fear is the fundamental reason why the turbulence zone might be harmful. Fear comes when a person does not grasp what is happening to him or what is causing the plane to shake.

Furthermore, the vestibular system is under stress. Some people start to see a little drop in height as a fall, and even the tiniest inclination as a spin of the machine around its axis.

In most cases, the transit of such a zone may be predicted very easily. As a result, cabin personnel tell passengers ahead of time that they must take their seats and tighten their seatbelts. This way, you safeguard not only yourself, but also other passengers. Often times it is not the turbulence itself that causes so much stress and anxiety but the anticipation of it and the lack of information about what causes it. Perhaps planning your journey and referring to the tips below could help you feel a bit more in control and a bit less worried about an upcoming flight.

Helpful Tips

AirAdvisor shares the techniques that will help ensure a flight with maximum comfort:

• To facilitate the flight you can start at the registration stage, choose a place near the cockpit, closer to the middle. In this part of the jet, turbulence will be felt a little less.
• If you are prone to motion sickness, you can take special pills in advance, get packs for vomiting (you probably will not need them, but you'll feel safer having them).
• Breathe deeply and try to relax the muscles. Try to deceive your body, imitating complete relaxation.
• If sleeping on the plane helps you get more relaxed and a little less sensitive to the sudden occurrences of turbulence, make sure you have everything you need for comfortable sleep on the plane. Ask the crew for an extra blanket if you need one, don't forget to bring a sleeping mask and ear plugs and choose the most comfortable pillow. We provide a whole list of the best travelling pillows, check and see which one is the right one for you.

On average, about 90% of flights pass through the shaking zone. However, air transport mishaps due to turbulence were uncommon over the first 120 years of aviation. Experiencing turbulence is a very common part of travelling by plane, and it is a process that's well studied and well prepared for, so keeping this idea in mind might be helpful for easing down your anxiety the next time you travel. 

Travelling by plane can be a stressful experience for some people. Check out our guide on how to deal with the fear of flying to help resolve some of your concerns.

Fly with ease and don't be concerned; the turbulence zone is not as scary as it appears.

So you've overcome your fear of turbulence but your flight got cancelled or delayed? Don't worry. According to the European law, you might be entitled to EU261 compensation of up to €600 (£520).

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