The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Dangers of invisible turbulence for pilots
The risks of clear-air turbulence for pilots, its link to climate change and the technology helping improve aviation safety.
Dangers of invisible turbulence for pilots
Clear-air turbulence remains a persistent risk at cruising altitude because it is invisible to weather radar, making sudden encounters hard to predict. The report underscores the challenge of detecting these events before they occur.
Climate change is linked to increased turbulence, with severe North Atlantic clear-air turbulence reported to have risen by 55% between 1979 and 2020. This trend is highlighted as part of the ongoing risk assessment for flight operations.
Aircraft can withstand turbulence, but unrestrained passengers and crew are at serious risk of injury from abrupt, violent movements. The material stresses the importance of restraints to prevent injuries during unexpected shifts.
The report highlights the danger of invisible turbulence for pilots and cabin crew, emphasizing the need for vigilance and consistent use of restraints. It calls attention to maintaining disciplined cabin procedures to mitigate injuries.
Clear-air turbulence is invisible to weather radar, making sudden, hard-to-predict encounters a persistent risk at cruising altitude. The source notes that this visibility gap complicates forecasting and response during flights.