Turbulence is caused when an airplane flies through waves of air that are irregular or violent, which cause the aircraft to bounce around yawing, pitching, or rolling. You can compare turbulence to two oceans meeting.

When can we expect turbulence?

Turbulence can also be expected in the lower levels of a cold air mass that is moving over a warm surface. Heating from below creates unstable conditions, gusty winds and bumpy flying conditions. Thermal turbulence will have a pronounced-effect on the flight path of an airplane approaching a landing area.

What is the best time to fly to avoid turbulence?

According to airline captain, Laura Einsetler, early in the morning is the best time to fly to avoid turbulence. She told us “The key to turbulence avoidance is to take very early flights. The air is normally much smoother because it is cooler and denser."