Strong air movements can occur in the vicinity of high-altitude thunderstorms and jet streams. This type of wind shear and turbulence is challenging for the entire flight crew.
While flying over the Alps, a passenger aircraft encounters severe turbulence. On board, a meal is just being served. A passenger is scalded when hot water spills on them.
In recent years, the number of incidents per 10,000 aircraft movements has remained constant: 6.1 in 2021, 5.6 in 2022 and 6 in 2023. General aviation reported 2% and commercial aviation 98% of incidents due to wind shear and turbulence. As in previous years, 65% of cases occurred during approach and landing, 5% during take-off and 31% while cruising. The good news: an electronic system detects dangerous wind shear during the approach. It urges pilots to take immediate action, for example to initiate the missed approach procedure (landing approach aborted for safety reasons). Turbulence is not critical for the aircraft structure – but things can look different for passengers who are not wearing their seatbelts. The recommendation: wear seatbelts throughout the flight.
Last modification 01.05.2024
