The effects of climate change are exacerbating turbulence during flights, leading to dangerous incidents like the one experienced by passengers on Air Canada Flight AC33 in 2019. The flight, from Vancouver to Sydney, encountered severe clear-air turbulence, causing chaos and injuries onboard.
The phenomenon of clear-air turbulence, which occurs even in cloudless skies, is on the rise due to changing temperature patterns in the upper atmosphere. Research by experts like Paul Williams from the University of Reading reveals a direct link between climate change and increased instances of this unpredictable turbulence.
As the planet warms, the jet stream, a high-altitude wind current crucial for air travel, is becoming more turbulent, resulting in more severe clear-air turbulence. This trend is expected to worsen unless significant measures are taken to reduce emissions.
Efforts to predict and mitigate turbulence are underway, with developments in forecasting algorithms and insights from nature, particularly birds. Researchers like Aimy Wissa at Princeton University are studying bird flight mechanics to improve aircraft stability during turbulent conditions. By mimicking the structure of bird feathers on aircraft, advancements are being made to enhance flight control and safety.
Passengers are reminded of the importance of wearing seat belts during flights, as statistics show that injuries are significantly reduced among those who remain buckled up. With turbulence incidents becoming more frequent, ensuring seat belt usage is a crucial safety measure for all air travelers.