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 time of year is turbulence the worst?

Winter has higher winds, blizzards and more clear air turbulence. Spring has fast-moving fronts and high winds, causing severe squall lines. Each of these events can cause turbulence.