Govind Tekale
A recent study has found that turbulence, specifically clear-air turbulence, will occur more frequently as the climate continues to warm, impacting flight safety.
Photo Credits: Dennis S. Hurd
Clear-air turbulence is difficult to detect and avoid because it occurs unexpectedly in clear skies, without visual warning signs.
Photo Credits: Dr. Wendy Longo
Photo Source: Google
This turbulence typically occurs near jet streams, which are fast-moving air currents traveling from west to east in the upper troposphere.
With increasing global temperatures, the energy within the atmosphere will rise, leading to faster jet stream currents and a higher frequency of volatile air spikes.
Clear-air turbulence is the leading cause of aviation turbulence, accounting for approximately 70% of weather-related accidents in the United States, according to atmospheric scientist Mohamed Foudad.
Most instances of clear-air turbulence happen at altitudes where commercial planes fly, typically between 10 and 12 kilometers (32,000 to 39,000 feet) above the Earth's surface.
Between 1980 and 2021, the frequency of moderate to severe clear-air turbulence increased by 60% to 155% in certain regions.
Researchers used 20 computer simulations to predict future trends, modeling scenarios with temperature increases ranging from 1 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Although future flights may encounter more turbulence, modern aircraft are designed to endure strong turbulence, ensuring passenger safety.
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