A routine flight turned into a nightmare for passengers aboard a WestJet flight as the aircraft was struck by severe turbulence mid-air, leaving many shaken and traumatized. The incident occurred during a flight en route to Calgary from Toronto, and while no significant injuries were reported, the chaos inside the cabin left a lasting impact on the passengers.
The Flight
The WestJet flight, which departed from Toronto Pearson International Airport, was carrying over 200 passengers, including families, children, and business travelers. For the first half of the journey, everything seemed smooth. However, approximately two hours into the flight, as the plane flew over the Rockies, it encountered unexpected and extreme turbulence.
Passengers described the sudden change as terrifying. Drinks were spilled, overhead bins popped open, and some passengers who had not fastened their seatbelts were lifted out of their seats momentarily. Many reported hearing gasps and screams, with personal belongings scattering across the aisles.
A Passenger’s Account
Janet Williams, a frequent flyer who was on board, recounted the moment of fear:
“One moment, we were chatting, and the next, it felt like the plane just dropped. It was terrifying, like a roller coaster, but this time we were in the air. Some people were crying, and you could feel the tension. I had never experienced anything like it in all my years of flying.”
Williams, along with others, expressed relief when the turbulence subsided, but noted the palpable fear that lingered even after the situation stabilized.
Flight Crew Response
The flight crew acted swiftly during the ordeal. The captain made an announcement shortly after the turbulence hit, reassuring passengers that the situation was under control. Flight attendants moved quickly to check on those who appeared distressed or injured, despite the challenges of maneuvering through the shaky cabin.
WestJet issued a statement following the incident, emphasizing the safety of the aircraft and crew:
“We understand that turbulence can be a frightening experience for passengers, and we commend our crew for their professionalism during the event. Safety remains our top priority, and we are grateful that everyone arrived safely in Calgary.”
Understanding Turbulence
Turbulence, though unsettling, is a common occurrence in air travel. It is caused by irregular air movements resulting from weather systems, jet streams, or terrain. In this case, the flight passed through an area known for turbulent conditions over the Rocky Mountains, where differing air masses can collide unexpectedly.
Aviation experts noted that while severe turbulence can lead to injuries, such as bumps and bruises, modern aircraft are built to withstand these sudden shifts in air pressure and movement. Passengers are always advised to keep their seatbelts fastened when seated to avoid injury during unforeseen events like this.