Preparing for and coping with a rough flight
Even if you’re not a nervous flyer, a bit of rough turbulence gets any holiday off to a shaky start. The good news is there are ways to prepare and cope.
We’re going to look at the best way to prepare for a rough flight, and cope if you happen to find yourself on one. With a few simple measures you can be sure that your trip won’t be derailed by a little turbulence, and you can enjoy your holiday as planned.
1. Choose your seat wisely
When it comes to a comfortable flight your choice of seat is everything and can actually make a big difference in regards to the amount of turbulence you experience. Dr Robert Sharman, project scientist at the National Centre for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, advises people to try and opt for seats over the wings, which help the plane fly smoothly.
Mr Sharman told News.com.au, “Turbulence near the back of the aeroplane is exaggerated since it is furthest from the aeroplane’s centre of gravity.”
2. Make sure you’re wearing your seatbelt
Many people take their seatbelt off the moment a plane has finished its ascent, but this actually isn’t the right way to go about things. As the flight video probably instructed you, it’s in your best interest to make sure you’re wearing your seatbelt at all times.
Dr Sharman adds, “The current state of turbulence forecasting is still immature, and unexpected encounters can happen. So it’s best to always keep that seat belt buckled.”
3. Remain calm if turbulence does strike
As you’ve probably been assured on many flights, turbulence is a very normal thing in air travel (even though that doesn’t necessarily make it easier to experience). So try to remain as calm as possible. If you find yourself becoming especially nervous, deep breathing techniques can be quite a useful way to cope. Some expert flyers also suggest raising your feet slightly as turbulence hits is an effective coping mechanism.
Are you someone who’s affected by mobility issues? And how has the condition affected travel for you? Are there any extra measures you take?
Please share your story in the comments below.
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