In a dramatic and frightening episode for holidaymakers, a Ryanair Boeing 737-8 MAX operating flight FR1121 encountered severe turbulence on 28 December 2025, forcing the aircraft to make an emergency return to its departure airport.
The incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff, left multiple passengers injured and raised fresh concerns about in-flight turbulence and passenger safety.
Flight Details and Circumstances
Flight FR1121 departed Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the United Kingdom around 14:50 GMT, bound for Tenerife South Airport (TFS) in Spain.
At cruising altitude — approximately 35,000 feet — the aircraft encountered unexpectedly violent turbulence over Brittany, France, while cabin service was underway.
Passengers described the sensation as a sudden and intense jolt, with some reporting being thrown from their seats as the aircraft was violently shaken.
Several travellers likened the experience to scenes straight out of a “horror movie,” with objects and service trolleys flying through the cabin amid the chaotic motion.
Emergency Response and Landing
Following the turbulence encounter, the flight crew declared a general emergency and began a controlled descent.
The aircraft turned back toward Birmingham, safely landing approximately 90 minutes after takeoff.
Emergency services were on standby and attended the aircraft upon arrival.
A small number of passengers and crew received medical attention upon landing.
Ryanair confirmed that the incident was caused by air turbulence and that those needing assistance were provided help on the ground.
Injuries and Passenger Accounts
Reports indicate that several people aboard the flight sustained injuries, though details on the exact number and severity remain limited.
Passengers recounted scenes of panic, with some saying they were flung from their seats unexpectedly.
One anecdotal account mentioned a passing fighter jet shortly before the turbulence struck, though aviation experts have noted this is speculative and not confirmed as a causal factor.
Potential Turbulence Triggers
Severe turbulence can be caused by factors such as clear-air turbulence, atmospheric instability, or large weather fronts — often without visible warning signs.
At cruising altitudes, such conditions are difficult to predict and may hit without radar or visible cues, making preventive avoidance challenging for flight crews.
Context: Turbulence in Commercial Flights
While most flights encounter only mild turbulence that passengers feel as gentle bumps, severe turbulence, which can lift unrestrained passengers from their seats or cause sudden altitude changes, is rare but not unheard of.
In 2025 alone, other Ryanair flights have reported turbulence-related injuries and unscheduled landings, including one in June when a flight from Berlin to Milan diverted to Germany after severe turbulence injured several passengers and crew.
Safety Protocols and Passenger Advice
Aviation authorities globally emphasize the importance of remaining seated with seatbelts fastened whenever possible, even when the seatbelt sign is off, as the best protection against sudden turbulence-related injuries.
Flight crews also follow strict procedures to manage unexpected atmospheric disturbances and ensure the safety of all on board.
Conclusion
The turbulence incident affecting Ryanair flight FR1121 underscores both the unpredictable nature of severe turbulence and the crucial role of safety protocols in commercial aviation.
While injuries occurred and the experience was distressing for many passengers, the flight crew’s timely response and emergency procedures ensured a safe return to the ground with no loss of life.
As investigations continue, this event will likely contribute to ongoing discussions about turbulence forecasting, onboard safety practices, and passenger awareness.
