Clime
← Back to Blog
Guides

Understanding the Basics of Airplane Turbulence

June 22, 2026 · The Clime Team
Understanding the Basics of Airplane Turbulence

Airplane turbulence is a common phenomenon that can cause discomfort during flights. Understanding its causes can help passengers feel more at ease.

What Is Turbulence?

Turbulence refers to irregular air movements that result in sudden, unpredictable changes in altitude or attitude of an aircraft. These disturbances are typically caused by various atmospheric conditions.

Primary Causes of Turbulence

  1. Weather Systems: Large weather systems, such as thunderstorms or thick cloud clusters, can push the air around in uneven ways. When an aircraft flies near or around these systems, it can pass through pockets of rising and sinking air that cause bumps. Pilots try to avoid strong storms, but smaller disturbances remain completely safe to fly through. Most of the turbulence caused by shifting weather is harmless, even when it sounds louder inside the cabin. (ndtv.com)

  2. Jet Streams: Jet streams are narrow bands of fast-moving air at high altitudes. When an aircraft crosses the boundary between slow-moving and fast-moving air within these streams, the resulting wind shear can cause turbulence. This is particularly common on long-haul flights that traverse jet streams. (turbulence-forecast.com)

  3. Mountain Waves: As wind flows over mountain ranges, it creates waves on the downwind side that can extend to cruise altitude and beyond. Aircraft flying through these waves may experience turbulence. (turbulence-forecast.com)

  4. Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): This type of turbulence occurs in clear skies, typically at high altitudes, and is caused by vertical wind shear. It is often unexpected and can be challenging to predict. (cbsnews.com)

Managing Turbulence

While turbulence is generally not dangerous, it can be unsettling. Here are some tips to manage it:

  • Stay Informed: Listen to the flight crew's announcements regarding expected turbulence.

  • Keep Seatbelts Fastened: Always keep your seatbelt fastened when seated, even if the seatbelt sign is off.

  • Stay Calm: Remember that turbulence is a normal part of flying and that aircraft are designed to handle it.

Understanding the causes of turbulence and how to manage it can make your flying experience more comfortable.

Highlights:

Frequently Asked Questions