If you’re planning to fly this summer, there’s something important you should be aware of: turbulence is getting worse. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or someone who only boards a plane once in a while, recent studies and real-life events show that turbulent flights are on the rise and not just the bumpy-but-manageable kind.
So, what’s going on in the skies? Is this something new? What can you do about it? This article breaks it down in simple terms, with practical tips to help you fly smarter and safer this summer.
Why Is Turbulence Getting Worse?
Turbulence isn’t new, but experts are noticing that it’s becoming more frequent and more intense. One of the biggest reasons? Climate change.
Scientists say warmer global temperatures are affecting air currents at high altitudes. This includes something called the jet stream—a fast-moving river of air that planes often ride to save time and fuel. As the jet stream becomes more unstable due to climate change, it creates more pockets of unpredictable air, leading to rougher rides.
A 2023 study published in Nature found that severe turbulence increased by 55% between 1979 and 2020 over the North Atlantic, one of the world’s busiest flight routes.
Other Factors Contributing to Increased Turbulence:
- Higher-altitude flights: Airlines flying higher to save fuel can encounter more clear-air turbulence (which is invisible to radar).
- More flights overall: With more planes in the sky, the chances of hitting a turbulent patch go up.
- Changing weather patterns: Warmer oceans and irregular wind currents make storms and turbulent air more common.
Types of Turbulence Passengers Might Experience
Understanding the types of turbulence can help you know what to expect.
- Light Turbulence: Slight bumps or a gentle rocking. Usually not alarming.
- Moderate Turbulence: Noticeable shifts in altitude, but still manageable.
- Severe Turbulence: Sudden, intense jolts that can cause injuries if you’re not buckled in.
- Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The most dangerous because it’s invisible and can happen suddenly in clear skies.
Fact: Clear-air turbulence is increasing the fastest and is hardest for pilots to detect.
Recent Incidents That Raise Concern
Several incidents in the past few years have put turbulence back in the spotlight.
- May 2024: A Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore encountered extreme turbulence, resulting in one death and several injuries.
- March 2023: A Lufthansa flight from Texas to Germany dropped suddenly, injuring seven passengers.
- June 2023: A Delta flight experienced turbulence so severe that the food carts hit the ceiling, injuring multiple crew members.
These are just a few examples, and while rare, they show that turbulence isn’t something to take lightly.
How Pilots Deal with Turbulence
Pilots are highly trained to handle turbulence. Modern aircraft are built to withstand rough air, and cockpit technology helps detect and avoid many bumpy zones. However, clear-air turbulence remains difficult to forecast, even with modern tools.
Pilots often:
- Get updates from other planes about turbulent areas
- Use weather radar and turbulence prediction systems
- Adjust altitude or speed to find smoother air
Even so, not all turbulence can be avoided, especially if it develops suddenly.
What Passengers Should Know Before Flying This Summer
With turbulence getting worse, it’s important to be prepared—not scared. Here are practical tips you can follow for a smoother and safer experience.
1. Always Wear Your Seatbelt
This cannot be stressed enough. Even when the seatbelt sign is off, keep it fastened while seated. Most turbulence-related injuries happen because passengers were not buckled in.
2. Choose Seats Wisely
- Seats over the wing experience less motion than those at the back.
- First-class and business seats may feel slightly smoother.
- Avoid rear seats if you’re sensitive to motion.
3. Listen to Crew Instructions
If the crew asks you to sit down or delay going to the restroom, take it seriously. They get real-time updates from the cockpit about upcoming turbulence.
4. Secure Your Belongings
Keep bags under the seat and avoid placing heavy items in the overhead bins. Unexpected jolts can cause items to fall.
5. Plan for Motion Sickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider:
- Taking medication like Dramamine before boarding
- Choosing a window seat for visual reference
- Avoiding greasy or heavy foods before the flight
6. Use a Travel App
Apps like Turbli or MyRadar offer real-time turbulence forecasts based on your flight route. Some even predict rough patches in advance.
Should You Be Worried?
It’s natural to feel uneasy about flying when you hear that turbulence is getting worse, but here’s the good news: turbulence almost never causes plane crashes.
Modern airplanes are incredibly sturdy, and pilots are trained to handle even the roughest skies. The biggest concern with turbulence is injury from being thrown around in your seat not from the plane itself breaking apart.
That said, if you’re a nervous flyer, speak with your doctor or a mental health professional before your trip. Techniques like deep breathing, visualization, or even mild anti-anxiety medication can help.
What Airlines Are Doing About It
Airlines are becoming more proactive in dealing with increasing turbulence:
- Better flight planning: Using data from previous flights to avoid bumpy routes.
- Advanced weather models: AI is helping airlines predict turbulence more accurately.
- Passenger alerts: Some airlines notify passengers about expected turbulence on their flight so they can be mentally and physically prepared.
The Role of Technology in Tackling Turbulence
New tools are making it easier to predict and respond to turbulence:
- LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): Can help detect air movement ahead of the aircraft.
- AI and machine learning: Predict turbulence patterns using data from thousands of flights.
- Improved satellite systems: Offer better weather tracking in real-time.
These innovations help pilots navigate smoother routes and warn passengers earlier.
Looking Ahead: Is Turbulence the New Normal?
The reality is that turbulence is getting worse, and it may become a regular part of air travel as our climate continues to change. Scientists warn that as the planet warms, the frequency and intensity of turbulence will keep rising.
But it’s not all bad news. With better technology, pilot training, and passenger awareness, we can adapt. Flying might get bumpier, but it doesn’t have to get more dangerous.
Final Thoughts: Stay Calm, Stay Buckled
As we head into the busy summer travel season, remember that knowledge is power. Now that you know why turbulence is getting worse and what to do about it, you’re better prepared than most travelers.
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