NEW DELHI: The Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi that suddenly dropped nearly 300 feet after encountering severe turbulence on Tuesday has once again highlighted that the impact of such incidents extends well beyond visible injuries. While at least 14 passengers and cabin crew members were injured and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched an investigation, doctors say the physical and psychological consequences of severe turbulence can linger for days, weeks or even months.Psychiatrists warn that even passengers who escape with minor or no physical injuries may develop significant psychological distress. “The sudden perception of imminent danger, combined with the loss of control and visible panic, can activate the body’s survival response,” said Dr Rajesh Sagar, professor in the Department of Psychiatry at AIIMS.Dr Sagar said that passengers may experience persistent fear, anxiety, sleep disturbances, intrusive memories and heightened alertness after the incident. In some cases, the experience can trigger Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) within days, which may progress to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if symptoms persist beyond a month.“The psychological impact should not be underestimated simply because there are no major physical injuries,” Dr Sagar said. He advised passengers to seek help if they continue to experience nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of flying or emotional distress. Early psychological support based on the principles of Psychological First Aid can reduce the risk of long-term trauma, he added.Doctors also cautioned against dismissing apparently minor physical injuries sustained during turbulence. Dr (Maj.) Mukesh Garg, Director of Orthopaedics, Arthroscopy and Sports Injury at Sarvodaya Hospital, said passengers thrown against seats, overhead bins or cabin interiors may sustain bruises, ligament injuries, fractures or injuries to the neck and spine.“Not all injuries become obvious immediately,” he said. “Soft tissue injuries, ligament tears and mild concussions may take several hours to become apparent. Pain, swelling and stiffness often worsen over the next 24 to 48 hours.”He advised anyone who suffered a blow to the head, neck or back to undergo medical evaluation even if symptoms initially appear mild. Warning signs requiring immediate medical attention include severe or worsening headache, repeated vomiting, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, weakness or numbness of the limbs, difficulty walking, severe neck pain and loss of bladder or bowel control.
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Experts also recommend that passengers who develop a fear of flying after severe turbulence gradually rebuild confidence through counselling, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques. Starting with shorter flights, travelling with a trusted companion and keeping the seatbelt fastened throughout the journey can also help restore a sense of safety and control.
