Turbulence Flashcards
A pilot reporting turbulence that momentarily causes slight erratic changes in altitude and/or attitude should report it as
light turbulence.
When turbulence causes changes in altitude and/or attitude, but aircraft control remains positive, that should be reported as
moderate.
Turbulence that is encountered above 15,000 feet AGL not associated with cumuliform cloudiness,
including thunderstorms, should be reported as
clear air turbulence.
The minimum vertical wind shear value critical for probable moderate or greater turbulence is
6 knots per 1,000 feet.
One of the most dangerous features of mountain waves is the turbulent areas in and
below rotor clouds.
The conditions most favorable to wave formation over mountainous areas are a layer of
stable air at mountaintop altitude and a wind of at least 20 knots blowing across the ridge.
When flying low over hilly terrain, ridges, or mountain ranges, the greatest potential danger from turbulent air currents will usually be encountered on the
leeward side when flying into the wind.
Convective currents are most active on warm summer afternoons when winds are
light.