Wow, yeah, this can happen. In and near thunderstorms updrafts and downdrafts can well exceed 100 miles per hour. If you fly into one, the plane is almost instantly accelerated up or down, 0 to 100 MPH. This can slam you into the ceiling.
As a sailplane pilot, we actively seek updrafts and use them to gain altitude. It can get pretty rough (and fun) but you always have a seatbelt on tight. Commercial planes try their best to avoid these things but occasionally get caught.
https://www.khon2.com/local-news/mass-casualty-emergency-at-honolulu-airport-36-patients-treated/
@shuttersparks I have a friend. He and his father (a former US Navy fighter pilot) accidentally entered an embedded T-storm in their single engine. Said it was the roughest ride they ever had. Popped some rivets out of a wing.
@karlauerbach @shuttersparks ... and that's if you stay inside the plane.
