Ash Clouds

[audio:https://aviationenglishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/14ashclouds.mp3|titles=Ash Clouds]TOPIC: Ash Clouds

GOAL: To learn about ash cloud’s effect on traffic and how to deal with an encounter.

Level: Medium

 

Exercise #1: Read about the dangers of flying through ash clouds and how to handle such a situation.

In April 2010, Europe's skies remained largely closed for several days after a mass of volcanic ash which originated from Iceland blanketed the continent causing crippling flight delays. Due to the disruptions to air traffic, a major portion of 22,000 scheduled flights destined to take off from locations throughout Europe were cancelled. In fact, only 6,000 departed during the near weeklong event. The International Air Transport Association estimated the air traffic interruptions caused approximately $200 million in damage a day. Contrary to popular belief, flying through ash will not completely destroy an aircraft in seconds, but the abrasive particles will certainly cause great exterior and electrical damage to airplanes flying through the clouds over a very short period time.

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Air Rage – Causes and Prevention

[audio:https://aviationenglishblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Air_Rage_-_Causes_and_Prevention.mp3|titles=Air_Rage_-_Causes_and_Prevention]

Air Rage – Causes and Prevention

Air rage is defined as ‘disruptive or unruly behavior exhibited by passengers and crew of an aircraft during a flight’. The reasons for this kind of behavior have often been assigned to excessive alcohol consumption, crowded or long flights that agitate passengers, problems with crew members or other psychological problems. Air rage can create an environment of tension in the air putting both the crew members and the passengers at risk.

According to aviation expert, Diana Fairechild recycled air on planes aids in spreading infections like flu and tuberculosis and minimal oxygen in the cabin can also lead to a higher level of temper tantrums and boisterous behavior among kids. There have been many reports of air rage resulting in unscheduled landings, jail time and penalties for passengers, career changes for flight attendants and even death of a passenger.

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