I am flying to Singapore with Singapore Airlines and then from Singapore to Paris. I have a fear of flying.
How can I overcome this fear! It will be on a morning flight to Singapore where we stop for 2 days and then we fly from Singapore to Paris on a very long flight back to Paris.
I have a fear of hitting turbulence. Is this a good time to fly?
Please help!!!!
Lina
Hi Lina,
I have answered this question many times in this site but I will repeat it for your sake.
Turbulence can be a little worrying at times. Unfortunately on long haul flights, it is almost impossible to avoid them totally. Pilots will normally try their best to steer clear of the conditions that cause turbulence, such as by deviating off the route, climbing or descending. However, there are still times when they are caught within the normal turbulence that are not easily avoidable.
Turbulence is classified into four types. Light turbulence would manifest as some slight and rapid bumpiness. Moderate turbulence is light chops with greater intensity but with more rapid bumps. A severe one would cause the passengers to feel some force against their seat belts and any loose objects would be tossed about. Extreme turbulence is the most severe and can cause some damage.
During turbulence, the wings may flex a little and the engine can sometimes be seen shaking slightly on the pylon. Passengers should stay calm during this time, and understand that they are designed to do so and the wings would not actually snap off nor would the engines drop off!
Turbulence is something a pilot can fly through and is nothing to be concerned about. It is generally an issue of discomfort rather than one of safety as long as passengers have their seat belts securely fastened.
All the best to your flights from Paris to Singapore and return.
PS. To check for any latest updates or postings, you can follow my new Twitter at @CaptKHLim
