Passengers aboard a Turkish Airlines Airbus A321 flight experienced terror and extreme turbulence as the pilot made multiple failed attempts to land during a storm. The flight, which departed from Istanbul on September 10, encountered severe weather conditions upon approaching Tunis-Carthage International Airport.
Video footage shared on social media captured the alarming moments, with passengers heard screaming and one passenger exclaiming, "we will die." The aircraft reportedly began to "fall" and "shake very strongly" during the turbulent approach. Some passengers pleaded with the pilot to divert to another airport rather than risk another landing attempt in the storm.
A Russian-speaking tourist, who initially posted the video, described the experience on social media, stating, "never in my life have I been so scared for my life." The passenger's emotional account highlighted the severe distress experienced by those on board.
Ultimately, the flight was diverted to Enfidha-Hammamet Airport, located approximately 55 miles south of Tunis. Upon a safe landing at the alternate airport, passengers reportedly applauded.
Turkish Airlines has been contacted for comment. Turbulence, caused by changes in air currents and pressure, is generally not considered a major safety risk. However, recent research indicates a trend towards more intense and frequent turbulence. A 2023 study from the University of Reading suggests that rising global temperatures and alterations to the jet stream are contributing to increased atmospheric turbulence. The study reported a 55% increase in severe turbulence between 1979 and 2020, with expectations of further intensification and frequency in the future.