Avoiding a bumpy ride in the air begins on the ground.

Understanding turbulence

When cold air masses meet warm ground surfaces, the atmosphere becomes unstable, leading to flight conditions that can be tummy-tumbling for travelers. Because turbulence is unpredictable, staying alert and techniques such as reducing airspeed when turbulence is expected will help keep kith and kin comfortable and your flight smooth.

The phenomenon of airsickness

Pilots sometimes assume the additional role of in-flight medics, tackling airsickness among passengers. Airsickness, a type of motion sickness, happens when our eyes and inner ear don’t agree on what’s happening, leading to dizziness and nausea. It can be unpleasant for passengers, so managing any occurrence with care is important.

Signs and symptoms of airsickness

If a talkative passenger stops talking, or their skin pales to the pallor of Santa’s beard, your jetsetters may be suffering from “aviation sickness.” Common indicators include nausea, cold sweats, disorientation, headaches, and sleepiness. In extreme cases, airsickness can render a passenger incapacitated.

Identifying vulnerable passengers

Certain groups are more prone to airsickness than others. These include first-time flyers, children between the ages of 2 and 12, individuals with a history of motion sickness in cars, and those anxious about flying. Recognizing these groups allows for proactive strategies to enhance their comfort.

Strategies for passenger comfort

To mitigate the effects of airsickness, offer this checklist to your passengers:

• Pound of prevention: Consult your doctor about getting a prescription airsickness patch.
• Flight fashion: Light, breathable attire can help maintain comfort.
• Preflight feast: Light meals before the flight can prevent nausea.
• Strategic seat selection: Choose a seat near the airplane's center of gravity to reduce the sensation of motion.
• Focus on the horizon: Keep your eyes on the horizon to provide a stabilizing visual reference.
• Natural remedies: To alleviate symptoms once they start, arm yourself with nature’s remedies like ginger and peppermint, or seek aid from over-the-counter medications.
• Breathing techniques: Deep, controlled breathing can help some people effectively manage nausea.

Strategies for smoother flights

There’s joy in sharing the thrill of flying with our loved ones. To keep them eager for more, consider these tips:

• Careful route selection: Choose flight paths that avoid areas known for turbulence and keep your maneuvers smooth—including coordinated turns.
• Informative preflight briefings: Educate your passengers about possible turbulence to help them mentally prepare for the flight.
• Cabin air quality: Maintain fresh airflow in the cabin to enhance passenger comfort.
• Effective communication: Keep passengers informed with calm and clear updates throughout the flight.
• Airsickness management: Have resources like airsickness bags, wet wipes, and candies that help alleviate nausea readily available.

Navigating the skies with family during the season’s festivities blends joy with responsibility. With thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and flexible approaches, we can craft a flight experience that's smooth and enjoyable for everyone aboard.