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Have you ever reflected on the nerve-wracking moments of turbulence during a flight Those unsettling jitters and sudden bumps that accompany you mid-air While it may not have crossed your mind, scientists have unveiled a profound revelation about the true origin of this phenomenon, which also happens to be the underlying cause of numerous pressing global concerns&mdashclimate change.
According to a study by the University of Reading in the UK, climate change has increased turbulence during plane rides. Scientists have found that clear-air turbulence, a type of turbulence that is not visible and poses risks to aircraft, has become more prevalent in specific regions across the globe. These findings indicate that the experience of travelling by plane has become bumpier compared to four decades ago.
The study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters focused on a specific area of concern, the North Atlantic, renowned as one of the busiest flight routes in the world. Analysing the data collected from 1979 to 2020 has revealed some notable findings. Over this period, the total annual duration of severe turbulence at a specific point in the North Atlantic increased by 55 per cent. In 1979, severe turbulence stood at 17.7 hours in 2020, it rose to 27.4 hours.
How Is Climate Change Causing Air Turbulence
The researchers have identified a direct link between rising carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and warmer air. This warming trend impacts the jet streams, leading to heightened wind shear and intensification of clear-air turbulence. This phenomenon is not limited to the North Atlantic region but has implications globally.
It is essential to recognise that turbulence during flights can be disruptive and occasionally pose risks. The findings of this study raise concerns regarding the management of increased turbulence by airlines. In the United States alone, the aviation industry incurs an annual cost ranging from USD 150 million to USD 500 million due to turbulence-related issues.
Flight Routes Affected
The study also highlighted that the impact of increased turbulence extends beyond the United States and the North Atlantic region. Other prominent flight routes over Europe, the Middle East, and the South Atlantic have also witnessed substantial rises in turbulence levels. This suggests that the effects of climate change on air travel are not localised but have global implications.
The study suggests investing in enhanced turbulence forecasting and detection systems to address the challenges posed by this intensifying turbulence. By improving these technologies, it would be possible to anticipate and identify rough air areas more accurately. By doing so, the aviation industry can better prepare for and respond to the increasing turbulence resulting from climate change, ensuring enhanced safety and comfort for passengers in the coming decades.
Cover photo credit Unsplash
