When Turbulence Tests the Heart: Health Lessons from the Arik Air Engine Incident

 News broke on Wednesday that an Arik Air Boeing 737-7GL aircraft (registration 5N-MJF), operating a scheduled domestic flight from Lagos to Port Harcourt, experienced an in-flight engine anomaly and safely diverted to Benin Airport. Thankfully, the aircraft landed without reported casualties. While aviation authorities will focus on the technical investigation, there is an important health dimension to incidents like this that often goes unaddressed.

Moments of unexpected danger—especially thousands of feet above ground—can have significant physical and psychological effects on passengers and crew.

The Body’s Immediate Reaction to In-Flight Emergencies

When passengers hear words like “engine anomaly” or feel a sudden change in engine performance, the body instantly switches into survival mode. The sympathetic nervous system triggers the “fight or flight” response:

• Heart rate increases

• Blood pressure rises

• Breathing becomes rapid and shallow

• Muscles tense

• Stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol flood the bloodstream

For healthy individuals, this response may subside once safety is restored. However, for people with underlying conditions—hypertension, heart disease, anxiety disorders, asthma, or panic disorder—such stress can provoke serious health episodes.

It is not uncommon for mid-air emergencies to trigger:

• Panic attacks

• Chest pain (sometimes mistaken for heart attack)

• Fainting

• Severe anxiety reactions

• Asthma exacerbations

In extreme cases, intense emotional shock can precipitate cardiac events, especially in vulnerable individuals.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective on Fear and Shock

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) viewpoint, sudden fear directly affects the Kidneys. In TCM theory, fear is the emotion associated with the Kidney system. When fear is intense or prolonged, it can weaken Kidney Qi, leading to symptoms such as:

• Palpitations

• Weak knees or trembling

• Shortness of breath

• Dizziness

• Urinary urgency

Shock and sudden fright can also disturb the Heart Shen (spirit), resulting in insomnia, restlessness, or lingering anxiety long after the event.

Additionally, rapid shallow breathing during panic disrupts Lung Qi. The Lungs govern respiration and are closely linked to the body’s ability to regulate Qi. When breathing becomes erratic, the smooth flow of Qi is disturbed, increasing feelings of suffocation and panic—creating a vicious cycle.

Post-Incident Health Effects: The Silent Impact

Even when flights land safely, the psychological impact can linger. Some passengers may experience:

• Difficulty sleeping

• Fear of flying

• Heightened anxiety

• Flashbacks

• Increased blood pressure in the days following

This is especially relevant in Nigeria, where many individuals already live under significant daily stress. An aviation scare may compound existing stress burdens.

It is important not to dismiss these reactions as “overreacting.” The body remembers trauma, even when the outcome is safe.

Simple Health Strategies for Air Travelers

While mechanical issues are beyond passenger control, there are proactive steps travelers can take to protect their health during stressful situations:

1. Practice Controlled Breathing

Slow, deep abdominal breathing helps calm the nervous system:

• Inhale through the nose for 4 seconds

• Hold for 4 seconds

• Exhale slowly for 6–8 seconds

This signals the brain that the body is safe and reduces adrenaline output.

2. Stay Medically Prepared

Passengers with hypertension, diabetes, asthma, or heart conditions should:

• Take medications as prescribed before travel

• Carry emergency medications in hand luggage

• Inform travel companions of their condition

3. Hydration Matters

Dehydration worsens stress responses. Adequate water intake supports circulation and reduces headaches and fatigue.

4. Post-Flight Recovery

After a stressful event:

• Rest adequately

• Avoid excessive caffeine

• Engage in light exercise such as walking

• Consider calming herbal support under professional guidance

From a TCM perspective, herbs that calm the Shen and nourish the Heart and Kidneys may be beneficial after acute fright—always under supervision of a qualified practitioner.

A Word on Airline Crew and Occupational Stress

We must also remember the flight crew. Pilots and cabin crew are trained extensively for emergencies, yet repeated exposure to high-stress scenarios can take a toll. Chronic stress among aviation professionals may lead to hypertension, burnout, or sleep disorders.

Occupational health support for aviation workers is just as critical as aircraft maintenance.

Safety, Gratitude, and Awareness

The safe diversion of the Arik Air flight to Benin Airport is a reminder of the importance of training, professionalism, and aviation safety protocols. It is also a reminder that health is deeply interconnected with our experiences—especially those that trigger fear and uncertainty.

In moments of crisis, the aircraft may be engineered to withstand turbulence—but the human body and mind must also be supported.

As we reflect on this incident, let us broaden the conversation beyond mechanical systems to include emotional resilience, cardiovascular health, and holistic well-being.

Because sometimes, the journey tests more than the engine—it tests the heart.