Turbulence: Can rattle even the most

Turbulence can rattle even the most experienced flyers, but modern aircraft and well-trained pilots mean it’s rarely dangerous. Here’s a look at what causes those bumps and how pilots handle them to keep flights safe and smooth. What causes turbulence, and what can you do if it happens to you? Turbulence can be scary, but here’s the science behind this natural phenomenon—and tips to stay safe on a plane. Turbulence occurs when the smooth flow of air is disrupted, leading to irregular, chaotic movements. This phenomenon can be classified into several types, including wake turbulence (created by other aircraft), thermal turbulence (caused by rising warm air), and mechanical turbulence (resulting from air flowing over terrain). As an aircraft ascends or descends, it often passes through layers of air at different temperatures and speeds, which can create instability. Factors such as ... Turbulent flow or turbulence is a phenomenon that occurs when a fluid, such as water or air, moves irregularly and chaotically. It is characterized by the formation of eddies and vortices within the fluid.