While I was going about my usual morning routine of catching up with travel-related news, preparing for my blog, and doing some research for an upcoming trip for solo travelers, an interesting news story caught my attention. It was about a recent air incident that had occurred. As per the reports, a flight operated by Latam Airlines from Sydney, Australia, had encountered unexpected turbulence, causing the aircraft to drop around 300 feet.
Even though the new plane has to withstand its turbulence, the plane, Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, has experienced severe turbulence.
The turbulence was so severe that the flight crew had to declare an emergency landing in Auckland, New Zealand. It was a harrowing experience for the passengers and crew members on board. Many of the passengers were left with injuries, including bumps and bruises, cuts, and broken bones.
The plane’s cabin was also damaged due to turbulence. Unrestrained passengers were thrown around the cabin, hitting their heads and bodies on various objects. The situation was so dire that paramedics had to be called to the scene to rescue the injured passengers and transport them to the hospital.
Overall, it was a frightening and chaotic situation that left many people shaken up. I couldn’t imagine being in that situation myself, and it’s a testament to the bravery of the flight crew and first responders who worked quickly to ensure the safety of everyone on board.
The incident that happened recently involved 50 individuals who were injured during a flight, and out of those, 13 had to be sent to the hospital for medical attention, with one person being in critical condition. This incident has inspired me to write a blog on the importance of safety when flying on a plane.
As a responsible traveler and travel expert, it is my duty to emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts properly while seated on a plane. It is concerning to see that many passengers on flights do not take this safety measure seriously. It is worth noting that turbulence can occur unexpectedly, and in such cases, wearing a seat belt while seated can make a significant difference in minimizing injuries. It is also important to understand that turbulence can be severe enough to cause passengers to hit the ceiling or be thrown out of their seats. The only way to prevent such incidents is by wearing seat belts at all times while seated on a plane. Not only is it a crucial safety measure, but it is also a legal requirement enforced by many airlines. Therefore, I strongly urge all passengers to adhere to this safety rule and buckle up before takeoff.
Unconventional Flight Hack
I recently came across a fascinating social media trend on TikTok, where someone shared an unconventional travel “hack” involving the use of a seat belt to wrap around their feet during a flight. The video, which went viral with 20 million views, depicted a person with their feet wrapped in a seat belt while seated on a plane. This unusual technique dubbed the “Flight Squatter” or “Fetal Position,” has gained attention for its creativity and comfort. However, while some people find it innovative, I couldn’t help but consider the potential safety risks associated with it, especially during turbulence. My primary concern revolves around the safety implications of being in a squat or fetal position with feet bound during unexpected turbulence. This position could potentially lead to serious injuries such as concussions and being thrown from the seat. Furthermore, in the event of an emergency evacuation, having one’s feet bound could pose a significant obstacle.

Just don’t do this on your flight; not only is it rude, but also dangerous.
Instead of resorting to unconventional methods, it’s safest to simply sit in your seat and buckle up snugly around the waist/hips to minimize the risk of injuries during turbulence. Moreover, wrapping the seat belt around your legs may actually increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), so it’s best to avoid that practice altogether.
It is of utmost importance to acknowledge that hospital visits can be quite financially burdensome, especially if they occur while traveling. Having proper insurance coverage can prove to be a great help. Therefore, it is highly recommended to take necessary precautions while flying to avoid any unwanted incidents, such as illnesses or injuries. It is important to note that incidents of this nature are not isolated occurrences, and it is crucial to take appropriate safety measures while traveling to ensure a safe and secure journey. This includes following all necessary safety protocols and guidelines while on board, as well as being mindful of any potential health risks associated with your destination. By taking these precautionary steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of any unfortunate incidents occurring while traveling.
One of the incidents that I remember vividly occurred in December 2022. I was working on a blog post that listed safety tips for air travel when Hawaiian Airlines Flight 35 experienced severe turbulence en route to Honolulu. The plane was an Airbus A330-200. The turbulence was so intense that it caused several passengers to be injured, and the flight crew had to divert the plane to a nearby airport for an emergency landing. The incident was widely reported in the news, and many people were understandably shaken by the experience.
When preparing for an upcoming flight, it is crucial to prioritize your safety by familiarizing yourself with the safety protocols and regulations provided by the airline as well as any unspoken or underlying guidelines. Taking the time to understand these procedures will not only enhance your sense of readiness but also boost your confidence as you embark on your travel journey.
