(SQAUK) – During a recent appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg emphasized the impact of climate change on transportation, particularly in the aviation sector. He highlighted the increasing flight turbulence as a result of climate change.
Buttigieg highlighted that extreme weather events such as heat waves and hurricanes have been more intense and frequent. He also noted that studies have indicated a 15% increase in turbulence, with severe clear-air turbulence over the North Atlantic becoming 55% more frequent between 1979 and 2020. Clear-air turbulence, which occurs without the visual cues of clouds or storms, is especially problematic because it can happen unexpectedly, posing risks to passengers and flight operations.
The Secretary commented in response to recent incidents in which flights encountered severe turbulence, resulting in injuries and, in one instance, a fatality. These incidents highlight the need for revised policies, updated technology, and improved infrastructure to accommodate the changing climate and ensure air travel safety.
.@SecretaryPete says an increase in flight turbulence is one of the effects of climate change that “are already upon us in terms of our transportation.”
He says the deadly turbulence on a recent Singapore Airlines flight is “very rare,” but “turbulence can happen and sometimes… pic.twitter.com/GIOvMHi7fh
— Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) May 26, 2024
In the face of ongoing climate change, Buttigieg’s comments underscore the interconnected nature of environmental issues and the various sectors they impact. The aviation industry and policymakers face the daunting task of minimizing these effects and ensuring the safety and well-being of travelers globally.
My documentary Shackled To Silence seems right on point, illustrating current events. Things are going to deteriorate, and we need to identify the cause. What is the perturber?
