30-8-2024 (FUKUOKA) Passengers aboard an Air Asia flight from Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport to Fukuoka endured a heart-stopping ordeal as their aircraft battled through the ferocious winds of Typhoon Shanshan during its approach to the Japanese city. The incident, which occurred yesterday morning as the typhoon made landfall near Satsumasendai City in Kagoshima Prefecture, has highlighted the severe impact of the storm on air travel and safety across the region.
As the aircraft descended towards Fukuoka Airport, it encountered extreme turbulence, causing violent shaking that elicited cries of distress from terrified passengers. Japanese media reports described a scene of panic aboard the flight, with travellers gripping their seats and audibly expressing fears for their safety. Despite the harrowing experience, the pilots managed to navigate the treacherous conditions and bring the plane to a safe landing, much to the relief of all on board.
The dramatic moment was captured on video by one of the passengers, with footage circulating online showing the intense shaking of the cabin and the palpable anxiety among those present. As the aircraft touched down safely, a wave of applause erupted from the relieved travellers, marking the end of their frightening journey through the typhoon’s wrath.
【“珊珊”袭福冈机场 飞机猛晃吓哭乘客】
超级台风“珊珊”昨天（29日）上午登陆日本，福冈机场首当其冲，险象环生。多架飞往福冈机场的客机，降落时被强风吹得猛烈摇晃客机在降落期间发生剧烈摇晃，许多乘客尖叫，有人甚至大哭。#东方日报 #Japan #Fukuoka #Airport #Typhoon pic.twitter.com/FHylFyK4XG
— 东方网OrientalDaily (@ODNMalaysia) August 30, 2024
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the powerful impact Typhoon Shanshan has had on Japan’s aviation sector. Major carriers Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways were forced to cancel a staggering 494 domestic flights on 29th August alone, underscoring the widespread disruption caused by the severe weather conditions.
The typhoon’s effects have extended far beyond air travel, with tragic consequences on the ground. As of the early hours of 30th August, Japanese authorities reported four fatalities, 94 injuries, and one person missing as a result of the storm. The slow-moving nature of Typhoon Shanshan has prolonged its impact, prompting officials to issue warnings for continued severe weather, potential mudslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and river overflows until at least 31st August.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has emphasised the need for continued vigilance as the typhoon progresses northeastward at a speed of 10 kilometres per hour. Even regions far from the storm’s centre, such as Kanto and Tokai, are experiencing heavy rainfall, illustrating the far-reaching effects of this powerful weather system.
