A recent incident on a Qatar Airways flight during which severe turbulence struck over Turkey, resulting in injuries to 12 individuals on board, has garnered attention. Despite the unsettling experience, the flight managed to land as scheduled in Dublin on Sunday without further complications. Passengers shared accounts of the distressing event, mentioning crew members being thrown into the air and the aircraft unexpectedly losing altitude. The sudden drop caused chaos in the cabin, with food items scattered and a sense of panic prevailing among those on board.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another turbulence-related emergency, involving a Singapore Airlines flight that had to make an unscheduled landing in Bangkok after encountering similar issues. Tragically, one individual lost their life, and many others sustained injuries during that turbulent flight.
Upon arrival in Dublin, Qatar Airways Flight QR017 was met by emergency services to attend to the six passengers and six crew members who had been injured. Accounts from passengers highlighted discrepancies such as the seatbelt sign not being illuminated during the turbulence. Some crew members were left with minor injuries, with reports of scratched faces and one person needing their arm in a sling.
Although fatalities and severe injuries from turbulence incidents are infrequent, studies suggest that such occurrences may become more frequent due to the effects of global warming. Climate change is believed to be intensifying turbulence by causing significant variations in wind speeds at different altitudes, as outlined by meteorologists at the University of Reading.
Qatar Airways has assured that the well-being of those affected is being taken care of, with an internal investigation underway. The airline emphasized its commitment to prioritizing the safety and security of passengers and crew members in all circumstances.
