Increasing Flight Turbulence: Why the Sky Is Getting Rougher and What It Means for Travelers

If your latest flight felt bumpier than expected, you’re not imagining things. Flights are getting more turbulent—and scientists say climate change is making the problem worse

 From invisible clear-air turbulence to rapidly shifting jet streams, here's what travelers need to know and how to stay safe.

What Is Turbulence—and Why Is It Getting Worse?

Turbulence is caused by irregular air movements that impact aircraft in flight—often due to sudden changes in wind speed and direction. The most concerning form is known as clear-air turbulence (CAT), which occurs without warning, cloud cover, or storms—often near jet streams at cruising altitudes.

Recent climate studies from the University of Reading show that severe turbulence has increased by 55% over the North Atlantic and 41% over the continental U.S. since 1979. Researchers warn that each additional degree of global warming could significantly multiply the occurrence of in-flight turbulence—particularly along major transcontinental and transatlantic routes.

What’s Causing the Increase?

The main driver behind the surge in turbulence is climate change. Warmer air holds more energy, which creates more instability in the upper atmosphere. As explained by the American Geophysical Union, two key factors are responsible:

• Increased vertical wind shear, which occurs as temperature differences at high altitudes become more pronounced.

• Stronger, more chaotic jet streams, which create friction between fast and slow-moving air layers.

These jet stream disruptions are especially common along the heavily traveled North Atlantic routes, making turbulence more likely in areas where long-haul flights cross oceanic and polar corridors.

How Often Is Turbulence Causing Injuries?

According to data from the FAA, turbulence is the leading cause of in-flight injuries, particularly among flight attendants. Between 2009 and 2023, more than 200 people in the U.S. were hospitalized due to turbulence-related incidents.

In one recent example, a Delta flight en route from Milan to Atlanta was forced to divert to New York after it hit severe turbulence less than an hour into the flight, injuring 25 passengers and crew members. Flight attendants were thrown into the cabin ceiling, and passengers described the scene as "horrific." Most turbulence-related injuries occur when seat belts are unfastened.

More tragically, a Singapore Airlines flight in May 2024 encountered such violent turbulence that one passenger died and dozens were injured.

Why Turbulence Matters Beyond Passenger Safety

Turbulence isn’t just a nuisance—it’s costly and dangerous. As reported by The Washington Post, airlines face multiple consequences:

• Increased aircraft maintenance, as turbulent conditions place mechanical strain on wings, fuselage, and flight control systems.

• Higher fuel costs, since avoiding turbulent zones often means longer routes.

• More delays, cancellations, and route adjustments—especially in summer and fall when CAT risks spike.

These challenges are becoming increasingly routine for airlines, leading to discussions about adapting flight planning and aircraft design.

What Passengers Can Do to Stay Safe

Though airlines and pilots are taking turbulence seriously, there are simple steps travelers can take to protect themselves:

• Always wear your seatbelt when seated, even if the light is off. Most injuries occur when people are unbuckled.

• Avoid getting up during long-haul flights unless necessary, especially when crossing oceans or flying at night—two common CAT scenarios.

• Use airlines’ turbulence forecasting tools. Platforms like IATA’s Turbulence Aware help pilots adjust routes in real time using data from previous flights (Washington Post).

• Minimize hot drinks and loose items in your lap during flight, especially when crossing jet streams or high-altitude zones.

Should You Be Worried?

Despite rising reports, flying remains statistically one of the safest forms of travel. Planes are designed to withstand significant turbulence, and pilots are trained to recognize and manage unstable air. But the increase in clear-air turbulence means passenger awareness and preparedness are more important than ever.

As Condé Nast Traveler explains, turbulence is no longer just a rare annoyance—it’s a changing part of the flying experience in a warming world.

Final Approach:

 Turbulence is becoming more frequent, more intense, and less predictable—especially in warm seasons and along transatlantic routes. With awareness, smart habits, and a good seatbelt, you can ride out the bumps with peace of mind. And for those with flight anxiety, knowing the facts can be the first step toward smoother travels.