According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States, turbulence is the movement of air caused by atmospheric pressure, jet streams, air around mountains, cold or warm weather areas, or thunderstorms.
Illustration of an airplane entering turbulent air – (Image: WALL STREET JOURNAL)
Air turbulence is a phenomenon where air moves unevenly and unpredictably, which can cause shaking for airplanes while in flight.
There are four main types of turbulence: thermal, mechanical, wake, and clear air turbulence. According to Britannica, the primary causes of air turbulence include changes in wind direction and speed, temperature differences between air masses, and terrain features such as mountains or tall buildings.
There is also a phenomenon known as Clear Air Turbulence (CAT), which occurs in clear, cloudless conditions and is often related to the interaction of air currents at high altitudes, causing significant jolts to airplanes without any prior signs from clouds or adverse weather.
How flights predict air turbulence.
Wearing seatbelts reduces injuries during turbulence According to Flying Magazine, many modern airplanes are equipped with weather radar and advanced forecasting technologies to detect air turbulence. However, some types of turbulence, such as Clear Air Turbulence (CAT), cannot be easily detected by radar as they are not associated with clouds. As a result, pilots are trained on how to handle turbulence, including staying calm, adjusting speed, and altitude appropriately to ensure safety, which allows them to quickly and effectively navigate the airplane out of turbulent areas. For passengers flying on airplanes, it is essential to remember to fasten seatbelts throughout the flight, especially when turbulence is expected. This small action can significantly reduce the risk of injury from being thrown around or colliding in the cabin during turbulence. |
