Turbulent Times for Flying

Tuesday, May 28th, 2024

How Likely Are You to Encounter Turbulence on Your Flight from the UK to Tenerife?

Is turbulence getting worse?

Turbulence is the irregular movement of air caused by atmospheric disturbances such as jet streams, weather systems, and terrain. When an aircraft encounters these turbulent air currents, it experiences abrupt and sometimes jarring movements, which passengers feel as bumps or shakes during the flight.

There is some evidence to suggest that turbulence is becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. Here are some examples:

Jet Streams: Climate change affects the jet streams, the fast-moving air currents at high altitudes that can create turbulence. As global temperatures rise, the temperature difference between the equator and the poles decreases, altering the jet streams and potentially increasing turbulence.

Thermal Instability: Warmer temperatures increase thermal instability in the atmosphere, leading to more convective activity, which can cause turbulence.

Clear-Air Turbulence: Studies suggest that clear-air turbulence, which occurs in clear skies and is difficult to detect, is becoming more common. This type of turbulence is linked to changes in the jet streams and atmospheric conditions driven by global warming.

Is your flight to Tenerife likely to be affected by turbulence?

Turbulence on a flight from the UK to Tenerife is generally mild to moderate, but here’s what you should know:

Factors contributing to turbulence on your Tenerife flight

Weather Systems: Flights over the Atlantic can encounter turbulence due to weather systems such as frontal systems or occasional thunderstorms, especially during certain seasons.

Jet Streams: The flight path may cross the North Atlantic jet stream, a fast-moving air current at high altitudes that can cause clear-air turbulence.

Thermal Turbulence: Rising warm air over the Iberian Peninsula and the Atlantic Ocean can cause some turbulence, particularly during the warmer months.

Likelihood of severe turbulence

Severe turbulence is rare on this route. The majority of turbulence encountered is typically mild to moderate.

What safety measures are in place to protect passengers from the effects of turbulence?

A range of different measures are in place to protect passengers from the effects of turbulence. These include:

Advanced Weather Forecasting: Airlines use sophisticated weather forecasting tools to predict and avoid turbulent areas by planning alternative flight routes.

Onboard Weather Radar: Aircraft are equipped with radar systems that detect turbulence in real-time, allowing pilots to navigate around turbulent zones when possible.

Pilot Training: Pilots receive extensive training in recognizing and managing turbulence, ensuring they can handle turbulent conditions effectively and keep passengers safe.

Seat Belt Policies: Passengers are instructed to keep their seat belts fastened whenever seated, even when the seat belt sign is off, to prevent injuries during unexpected turbulence.

Cabin Management: Flight attendants secure loose items and ensure that the cabin is prepared for turbulence, minimizing the risk of objects becoming projectiles.

Structural Integrity of Aircraft: Modern aircraft are designed to withstand significant turbulence, with strong airframes and flexible wings that can absorb and dissipate turbulent forces.

Ensuring a safe and comfortable flight

While some turbulence can be expected on a flight from the UK to Tenerife, it is unlikely to be severe. Pilots and airlines take numerous precautions to significantly reduce the risk and impact of turbulence on passengers and to ensure your safety and comfort. By following simple safety measures, such as keeping your seat belt fastened and keeping heavy objects stowed away, you can help to make your journey a safe and pleasant experience. Happy travels!

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Photograph courtesy of Pexels-Pixabay

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