I’m an Emirates pilot and here is why we put the seatbelt sign on – even when there is no turbulence
A PILOT has revealed the real reason why the seatbelt sign is turned on during a flight - even if there is no turbulence.
Many passengers often undo their seatbelts on flights to get more comfortable, so it can be annoying when the light is on.
However, Pilot Captain Christian Baker who works for Emirates, explains why you should still buckle up even if it seems to be smooth sailing.
He told Sun Online Travel: "Quite often passengers also wonder why the seat belt sign is switched on despite travelling in smooth air.
"And the reason is we often receive information from other aircraft on the same route reporting turbulent weather ahead, and we have advanced weather radar that indicates any potential turbulence.
"So in the interest of passenger safety, the seatbelt sign is switched on in anticipation."
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If you are worried about turbulence, he says some Emirates flights have problems that are for anyone scared of flying.
He added: "Emirates’ inflight entertainment has 100 Happiness & Wellbeing TV episodes for passengers.
"These episodes touch on themes including relaxation and meditation techniques, which I really recommend for passengers who are scared of flying or traveling long haul."
If you fancy becoming an Emirates pilot yourself, the airline is recruiting First Officers, with the role including lots of perks such as free flights for you and your friends and family - find out more .
Or if you fancy becoming a flight attendant, Emirates is also recruiting from the UK.
A Ryanair pilot has revealed a different reason he puts the seatbelt sign on, even if there is no turbulence.
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The pilot said: "Sometimes if the passengers are being annoying then the cabin crew ask us to turn the seatbelt signs on as if there's turbulence, just so everyone sits down and the cabin crew can relax."
The tactic was backed up by a flight attendant, who labelled it "artificial turbulence".
Flight attendant Amanda Pleva says that air pockets can come out of nowhere - and cause accidents if you aren't strapped in.
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She said: "Air pockets can sweep you right off of your feet and can occur without warning. So leave your seat belt on while at your seat."
Here is everything you need to know about turbulence and whether it is actually dangerous.
