Turbulence

Turbulence is irregular movement of air that results in sudden changes to the aircraft flight path. Turbulence is classified by intensity:

• Light: Slight, momentary changes in altitude/attitude
• Moderate: Definite changes, aircraft remains in control, unsecured objects displaced
• Severe: Large, abrupt changes, aircraft may momentarily be out of control
• Extreme: Practically impossible to control, structural damage possible

Types: convective (thunderstorms), mechanical (terrain/buildings), clear air turbulence (CAT, jet stream), wake turbulence (behind large aircraft), and mountain wave turbulence.