Finding a smooth ride

Turbulence can be caused by thunderstorms, strong winds, mountain waves, or other aircraft, and it can range from annoying light chop to head-banging severe. As varied as the reasons for or the severity of the turbulence, so are the means of its detection available to pilots. There's a whole arsenal of diagnostic and forecast tools, operational and real-time reporting platforms, and in-flight pilot reports. Even flight planning software like Foreflight or iFlightPlanner for AOPA includes layers depicting winds, weather, and probable turbulence.

To assess pilots’ and the aviation weather community’s overall preferences, and to evaluate the usability and accuracy of these tools, AWDE would like FAR Part 91 pilots, as well as Part 135 and Part 121 pilots and dispatchers, to take a survey, which will be open through June and will take about 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Pilots are encouraged to invite other aviators to complete the survey.

Results will ultimately be used to improve weather forecasting instruments, benefiting the whole aviation community.