A Ryanair passenger plane en route from Germany to Italy encountered severe turbulence over German airspace, resulting in terrifying moments onboard. Due to the turbulence, one cabin crew member and nine passengers sustained various injuries. Some passengers were reportedly thrown from their seats and hit the ceiling. The aircraft made an emergency landing following the panic.
Berlin–Milan Flight Hits Turbulence Shortly After Takeoff
The Ryanair flight, which had departed from Berlin bound for Milan, began to shake uncontrollably shortly after takeoff due to intense air currents. Although most passengers were wearing seatbelts, the violent jolts caused some to be lifted from their seats and hit the cabin ceiling. Screams and cries echoed throughout the cabin as the crew struggled to calm the passengers.
Lives Saved by Emergency Landing
Once the pilot regained control, an emergency landing was made at the nearest airport. After a safe landing, medical teams that had been standing by provided immediate care to the injured. The injured passengers were taken to local hospitals. Following the incident, the airline released an official statement:
“We extend our well wishes to our injured passengers and crew. We would like to inform the public that a full investigation into this extraordinary situation is being carried out with the utmost care.”
What Is Turbulence and Why Is It Dangerous?
Turbulence is a weather phenomenon caused by sudden and irregular changes in atmospheric airflow, leading to shaking and altitude loss during flight. It can be triggered by jet streams, atmospheric pressure differences, temperature shifts, mountain waves, and storms. While turbulence is often unpredictable, pilots are specially trained to handle such situations, and aircraft are built to withstand these conditions.
Aviation Safety in the Spotlight
The recent increase in turbulence-related incidents has prompted a reassessment of safety protocols within the aviation industry. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and other regulatory bodies are expected to focus more on advanced warning systems and passenger awareness initiatives—especially in light of turbulence cases rising due to climate change.
