Turbulence is mostly related to comfort however it can be risky as well.
Researchers have indicated a drastic change in clean-air turbulence (CAT) which is driven by climate change.
Causes of Increased Turbulence
1. Climate Change
The emission of carbon dioxide makes the air warmer. This warmer air results in the jet stream’s wind shear increasing which leads to high clean-air turbulence. Thus climate change is the biggest factor for the increase in turbulence.
Reports indicate an increase of 55% in severe turbulence on the North Atlantic side from the year 1979 to 2020.
Researchers have projected an increase in the strength of turbulence from 10 to 40% by the year 2050. The report further predicted that the world would see the double of clean-air turbulence by the same year.
2. Jet Streams
Jet streams are fast air currents that create turbulence. The increase in wind shear within these streams due to climate leads to an increase in severe turbulence.
3. Atmospheric Pressure and Weather Fronts
Turbulence triggers are also dependent on thunderstorms, atmospheric pressure, and weather fronts. The changes in any of these factors result in different up and down movement of air which leads to turbulence.
Impact on Aviation
1. Saftey Risks
Turbulence is not usually attributed to safety issues but is usually a comfort issue. However, turbulence can be risky if there are loose objects in the cabin. If the crew is not secured and there are loose elements in the cabin they can be risky as they can fly around resulting in injuries.
The example of risk due to turbulence can be understood from the fatality incident that took place on Singapore Airlines Flight 321 due to turbulence.
2. Economic Costs
The US aviation sector faces a financial burden of $150 to $500 million annually because of turbulence that often results in injuries, flight disruption, and aircraft damage.
3. Operational Adjustments
With the increase in turbulence, the costs have increased more. To achieve a long-term benefit the airline must invest in real-time data exchange platforms along with forecasting and detection of turbulence. This will help the pilots manage the increased turbulence areas by avoiding those routes.
Recommendations for Passengers
To prevent getting injuries from sudden severe turbulence, passengers are advised to fasten their seat belts at all times even when the sign is off.
Passengers must listen carefully to all the safety instructions that are provided and must secure their items to minimise the risk of getting injured due to turbulence on flights.
Climate change is often attributed to turbulence which is a main concern for the aviation industry nowadays. The aviation industry is constructing aircraft that can withstand severe turbulence issues however proper precautions should still be taken to prevent any injuries from taking place. The industry must invest in advanced turbulence forecasting technologies to eliminate these risks.