Severe Turbulence Forces Scandinavian Airlines Flight to Return to Europe
A Scandinavian Airlines flight heading to Miami had to turn around and return to Europe on Thursday after hitting severe turbulence over Greenland, the airline reported.
Emergency Turnaround After Turbulence
Flight SK957, carrying 254 passengers, encountered intense turbulence mid-flight, forcing it to divert to Copenhagen Airport in Denmark for safety reasons. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported among passengers or crew members, the airline confirmed in a statement to CNN.
Safety Protocols Lead to Inspection in Copenhagen
Once the turbulence subsided, the plane was rerouted to Copenhagen, where it could undergo a mandatory inspection. SAS explained that standard safety protocols require thorough aircraft checks after significant turbulence incidents.
“Since SAS does not have the facilities or staff in Miami to conduct such an inspection, we decided to redirect the aircraft to Copenhagen,” the airline said. “This ensures access to hangar space and qualified technicians.”
According to SAS, continuing to Miami could have resulted in the aircraft being grounded for an extended period, causing significant delays and cancellations.
Passengers Share Terrifying Experience
Photos shared on social media revealed items scattered across the cabin floor, illustrating the severity of the turbulence.
One passenger, Sammy Solstad, recounted the harrowing experience to CNN, saying, “Everyone was praying and just wanted to land. Flying over the open sea felt terrifying at that moment.”
Solstad also described a frightening incident involving a woman seated nearby who wasn’t wearing her seatbelt. “She flew up to the ceiling and then fell to the floor,” he said, adding that the chaos left many passengers shaken.
SAS Provides Support in Copenhagen
Upon landing in Copenhagen, passengers were met by a dedicated assistance team that helped them with rebooking and accommodations. SAS arranged hotel stays for those affected and rebooked them on alternate flights to continue their journeys.
Rare But Serious: Turbulence on Flights
While turbulence can be unsettling, serious incidents are relatively rare. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), turbulence is the leading cause of injuries during nonfatal airline accidents. Between 2009 and 2023, the National Transportation Safety Board reported that 37 passengers and 146 crew members sustained serious injuries due to turbulence.
A Reminder to Buckle Up
This incident serves as a stark reminder of why airlines emphasize keeping seatbelts fastened whenever passengers are seated. Although most turbulence is mild, extreme cases like this highlight the unpredictable nature of air travel.
Passengers from flight SK957 are now safely on their way to their destinations, but the frightening experience will likely remain with them for a long time.
