V9 24ARAM A Historical Review on Aviation Turbulence in Our Changing Climate

Tuesday, 23 January 2024
Nicholas D. Amundsen, Federal Aviation Administration, Washington, DC; and T. J. Flowe

Handout (2.0 MB)

The effects of climate change on aviation turbulence are a rising concern for maintaining the safety of air travel. The relationship between anthropogenic climate change and clear-air turbulence (CAT) is discussed in this poster, which highlights key findings from major studies carried out in the decade between 2013 and 2023. These studies add to our understanding of how aviation turbulence is influenced by climate change, and emphasize the need for proactive measures by looking at various turbulence mechanisms, occurrences, and impacts. The studies use a variety of approaches, including simulations of climate models, observational analyses, and derived diagnostics. The potential amplification of CAT strength and prevalence, particularly over busy flight corridors like the North Atlantic and North Pacific, is one of the major conclusions. These studies demonstrate how meridional temperature gradients, vertical wind shear, and enhanced jet stream winds all contribute to the intensification of turbulence. The significance of evaluating variables other than wind speed, such as vertical shear and stability indices, to fully evaluate CAT potential, is also highlighted. To minimize turbulence exposure, ensure passenger safety and comfort, and maximize efficiency, users must adapt to these evolving global atmospheric changes. This poster provides a compilation of current knowledge, emphasizing the urgency of further collaboration to develop strategies that address the challenges presented by a changing climate.
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