Southwest Airlines, a major US carrier, has been grappling with a unique yet potentially dangerous issue of soda cans exploding mid-flight. This phenomenon is attributed to extreme temperatures, which cause the cans to warp and subsequently burst open upon being opened. Interestingly, this exploding cans problem seems to be exclusive to Southwest, possibly due to its practice of not transporting the beverage cans in air-conditioned trucks.
The issue has escalated to a point where over 20 flight attendants have been injured due to the exploding cans, with one severe case even necessitating stitches. This presents a safety concern not only for the airline’s employees but also for its passengers.
In response to this, Southwest Airlines is now implementing measures to maintain onboard beverages at cooler temperatures, particularly in areas experiencing extreme weather conditions. This initiative is geared towards ensuring the safety and comfort of both their employees and passengers.
As part of the solution, the company is initiating tests with trucks equipped with air-conditioned cargo areas in Phoenix and Las Vegas. Additionally, airport teams are being directed to measure the temperature of the cans prior to loading them onto planes. Flight attendants are also being cautioned to refrain from opening cans that appear warped or feel hot and to suggest alternative beverages to customers instead.
Southwest operates from several airports that have witnessed record-breaking temperatures this summer. These include Phoenix, Las Vegas, Austin, Dallas, Houston, and Sacramento. The extreme heat, linked to climate change, is not only causing global issues like wildlife deaths in Mexico, wildfires in Cyprus, and power outages in Houston, but it’s also complicating airline operations and potentially causing bumpier flights.
While Southwest is taking proactive measures to mitigate the exploding soda cans issue, it also highlights the broader implications of climate change on various aspects of our lives, including air travel. It underscores the need for companies across industries to adapt and innovate in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Science4Data is committed to cut through greenwashing and measure real impact. Join the journey to a sustainable future. Your actions matter.
