Global Action on Turbulence: A Call from Asia

By Allison Lampert and Maki Shiraki

Introduction

MONTREAL/TOKYO (Reuters) – Aviation officials from Asia are advocating for global initiatives to mitigate injuries from turbulence, spurred by recent high-profile incidents. This call for improved forecasting was made during a Montreal gathering of regulators that began on Monday.

The Problem of Turbulence

While turbulence rarely results in fatalities, it remains the leading cause of aviation accidents, according to the U.N.’s aviation agency. Experts warn that severe weather patterns driven by climate change may lead to an increase in turbulence incidents.

ICAO Air Navigation Conference

This issue is among several topics being discussed at the International Civil Aviation Organization’s air navigation conference, which runs until September 6.

Recent Incidents

Concerns over turbulence have intensified since a Singapore Airlines flight from London in May faced a severe incident, resulting in one death and many injuries.

Proposed Changes

Countries like Japan, Korea, and Singapore are pushing to include turbulence as a category in ICAO’s 2026 Global Aviation Safety Plan, which outlines the industry’s priorities. A decision is anticipated at ICAO’s triennial assembly next year, where all 193 member states will participate.

Japan is also advocating for improved real-time coordination and sharing of weather and turbulence data across borders. An official noted that countries are working to make alerts more user-friendly for pilots.

Enhancing Data Sharing

Some Asian nations are already taking initial steps to enhance the accessibility of turbulence information, transitioning from text-based formats to more visual presentations.

Statistics on Turbulence

According to ICAO’s 2024 Annual Safety Report, turbulence accounted for approximately 40% of all accidents involving large aircraft in scheduled commercial operations last year.

Industry Responses

Although it’s not a requirement in Japan, All Nippon Airways voluntarily plays a safety video before and during flights to mitigate turbulence-related accidents. Additionally, Korean Air announced in August that it would cease serving instant cup noodles on long-haul flights to address increased turbulence incidents.