Transportation Secretary Buttigieg Blames Climate Change for Increase in Flight Turbulence

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has stated that climate change is contributing to the increase in flight turbulence, impacting the safety and experience of air travel. Speaking on CBS' "Face the Nation," Buttigieg emphasized the tangible effects of climate change on transportation, particularly highlighting the potential risks for American travelers both domestically and internationally.

Buttigieg pointed out various occurrences that illustrate the influence of climate change on the transportation sector. He highlighted heat waves posing a threat to transit systems in the Pacific Northwest, as well as the intensification of hurricane seasons. Furthermore, he noted a concerning 15% increase in turbulence, which demands comprehensive assessment and action.

Scientific Findings

A study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters revealed a significant rise in clear-air turbulence (CAT) between 1979 and 2020. The research indicated a 55% increase in the frequency of "severe-or-greater" turbulence over the North Atlantic during this period, underscoring the escalating impact of climate change on air travel.

Buttigieg's statements come in the wake of recent turbulence-related incidents that have affected flights around the world, raising concerns about passenger safety and well-being.

Qatar Airways Flight

On a recent Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Dublin, 12 individuals sustained injuries due to turbulence while flying over Turkey. Emergency services, including airport police and the fire and rescue department, responded as the aircraft landed, underscoring the disruptive and hazardous nature of turbulence.

A tragic incident occurred on a Singapore Airlines flight, where severe turbulence led to one fatality and left 30 others injured. Buttigieg acknowledged the rarity of such events while emphasizing the need for continual evaluation of safety protocols in light of the increasing frequency and severity of turbulence.