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Scientists at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom studied turbulence in clear air, which is difficult for pilots to avoid.
They found that severe turbulence had increased 55% between 1979 and 2020 in a busy North Atlantic route. The increase in high-altitude wind speed changes is due to warmer air from carbon emissions in the atmosphere. .
" After a decade of research showing that climate change will increase clear-air turbulence in the future, we now have evidence to suggest that the increase has already begun, " said an atmospheric scientist at the University of Reading.
Flights in the US and the North Atlantic saw the greatest increase in severe turbulence. Europe, the Middle East and the South Atlantic also saw significant increases in turbulence.
A university professor said the increase in turbulence was due to changes in wind speed on the fuselage. A strong wind system that blows from west to east, about five to seven miles above the Earth's surface, exists primarily because of a temperature difference between the equator and the world's poles.
Satellites cannot see turbulence, but they can spot the structure and shape of the wind flow on the fuselage, analyzing it afterwards.
Radar can predict turbulence from thunderstorms, but turbulence in clear air is almost invisible and difficult to detect.
Turbulent flights are not only uncomfortable, but can also cause injury to those on board. Strong turbulence is very rare, but in clear air it can occur without warning when passengers are not wearing seat belts.
While this phenomenon also brings financial consequences. The aviation industry loses between $150 million and $500 million in the US alone each year due to the effects of turbulence, including wear and tear on aircraft, the researchers said.
It also has an environmental cost, as pilots burn fuel avoiding airways with potential turbulence.
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