What is turbulence and what causes it?
What is turbulence?
Turbulence refers to sudden and irregular air currents experienced whilst an aircraft is in flight. This can cause the aircraft to shake and sway. Turbulence typically arises from a combination of various weather conditions and air currents and can be felt at different intensities during a flight.
Causes of Turbulence:
Air Currents:
- Changes in Wind: Sudden changes in wind speed and direction can cause turbulence. Particularly in mountainous regions, the irregularities created as winds pass over mountains can generate turbulence.
- High-Altitude Winds: Stratospheric air currents can influence the turbulence an aircraft encounters at high altitudes.
Weather Conditions:
- Strong Air Currents: Sudden changes in weather conditions, such as storms or air pockets, can cause turbulence.
- Cumulonimbus Clouds: These large clouds generate strong air currents and winds. Flying close to such clouds during a flight can cause turbulence.
Air Pockets:
- Local Air Pockets: Temperature differences in the air, particularly those between land and sea, can create air pockets. These pockets can cause turbulence.
Jet Streams:
- Jet Streams: At high altitudes, there are bands of fast-moving wind known as jet streams. Turbulence can occur at the edges of these streams and in the transition zones.
Air Currents from Other Aircraft:
- Wake Turbulence: Air currents left behind by preceding aircraft can cause turbulence, particularly in areas with heavy air traffic. This type of turbulence is known as ‘wake turbulence’.
Managing Turbulence:
- Seatbelt: Ensure your seatbelt is fastened during turbulence. This helps protect you from potential jolts.
- Crew Instructions: Pay attention to the crew’s instructions and follow the safety measures outlined when necessary.
- No Need to Worry: Turbulence generally does not damage the structural integrity of the aircraft, and modern aircraft are designed to handle such situations.
Turbulence is a normal part of flying and does not usually pose a safety concern. Pilots and flight crews can anticipate turbulence and manage the flight in the safest possible manner.
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