Last month we flew with Thomas Cook from Belfast to Palma. We landed in glorious sunshine but there were one or two very minor bumps during the approach which were enough to cause gasps and nervous laughter among some of the less frequent fliers. Applause broke out in the cabin following one of the smoothest landings I've ever experienced.
Ten days later, during the return flight, there was some more 'positive' turbulence as we approached Aldergrove over Newtownabbey. Indeed it was violent enough to throw a flight attendant who was just about to sit down from one side of the galley to the other. On this occasion, however, there was no applause when the wheels made contact with the runway. Perhaps people returning from holiday feel less inclined to clap.
Last Monday we flew from Belfast City to Newcastle with Flybe. The pilot warned us about bumpy conditions and although they were by no means the worst we had ever experienced the seatbelt sign remained on for the duration of the flight which was indeed a little rough at times. Despite the conditions the crew managed a very smooth touchdown but this remained unacknowledged by the Monday morning business travellers.
The cabin also remained resolutely silent following our safe arrival back at BHD last Thursday.