Research in mechanical engineering has revealed that air currents near airports can be detected, but not yet from planes. A recent incident involving a Singapore Airlines flight encountering severe turbulence resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries. Experts consider this occurrence to be rare. The quality of the turbulence experienced by the flight has not been disclosed, with speculation suggesting that it may have been clear air turbulence, which cannot be predicted in advance or detected by the airplane’s radar system.
According to a researcher, airports have equipment to detect vertical air currents, but this technology cannot yet be applied to airplanes. Airplane weather radars are only able to detect turbulence caused by water droplets, ice crystals, or dust, not clear air turbulence. Clear air turbulence occurs when different air masses collide or move at varying speeds, often caused by jet streams in the upper atmosphere.
Experts predict that due to climate change, the frequency and intensity of turbulence will increase in the coming decades. Research indicates a rise in turbulence levels in recent years, with some regions experiencing significant increases. To better predict and address turbulence, advancements in technology and data collection are crucial. For example, NASA is working on a system to detect clear air turbulence from a distance, while improved weather forecasting and increased measurements in sea areas could enhance our ability to anticipate turbulent conditions.
Incidents like the recent turbulence on the Singapore Airlines flight are propelling research and development efforts to improve turbulence detection and prediction. By expanding our knowledge of atmospheric conditions and investing in technological innovations, the aviation industry can work towards reducing the risks associated with turbulent flights.
