Summary of Are you Flying? Evidence for Large Increases in Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT) due to Climate Change
Clear air turbulence (CAT) is a hazardous phenomenon that has been increasing in severity due to climate change.
CAT is invisible and not detected by planes' radars, leading to unexpected and severe turbulence that can injure passengers and damage aircraft.
A study from June of last year found a significant increase in CAT over the past four decades, with the most severe turbulence increasing by 55%.
climate change is linked to the increase in CAT, as warmer air from greenhouse gas emissions affects wind speeds in the jet stream.
Detection of CAT is challenging, but technologies like laser radar (LiDAR) may help in the future.
Researchers like Professor Paul Williams from the University of Reading emphasize the need for improved turbulence forecasting and detection systems to prevent injuries and damage on commercial flights.
Various incidents of severe CAT causing injuries and even death have been reported recently, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing this phenomenon.
Satellite data and reanalysis data have shown clear evidence of the increase in CAT, particularly over the North Atlantic region.
The study indicates a significant rise in CAT probability and intensity, with the most severe turbulence becoming more frequent.
Recommendations include wearing seat belts at all times during flights and potentially equipping commercial aircraft with LiDAR systems to detect and avoid CAT regions.
Researchers/Source
- Professor Paul Williams, University of Reading
Notable Quotes
— 32:12 — « Make sure you have your seat belt on at all times when flying. You dont need to see a seat belt sign, just keep it on. »
— 32:38 — « Planes will likely keep the seat belt sign on at all times to ensure passenger safety. »
— 33:08 — « Hopefully, we can develop technology to detect and avoid clear air turbulence regions on commercial aircraft. »
Category
Science and Nature