The Liz Moody Podcast “Is Turbulence Getting Worse?” + Asking A Pilot All Of My Other Fear Of Flying Questions
Nov 20, 2024
Kyle Koukol, a pilot and founder of Dial A Pilot, dives into the world of flying anxiety. He reveals how turbulence works and addresses concerns about its rise due to climate change. With insights on pilot training and safety measures, he reassures listeners about air travel. Kyle emphasizes why fears regarding Boeing planes are overstated, and offers valuable tips for nervous flyers. He also discusses his company’s mission to help people conquer their fear of flying, fostering trust and comfort in aviation.
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Pilots Use Live Data To Avoid Turbulence
- Pilots use live accelerometer data from other aircraft to map and avoid turbulence in real time.
- Expect crews to change altitude when possible to find smoother air and improve passenger comfort.
Why Clear-Air Turbulence Happens
- Clear-air (shear) turbulence comes from fast-moving jet streams colliding and behaving like rivers meeting.
- Small altitude changes (±1,000 ft) often move the aircraft into much smoother air.
Climate Change And Crowded Skies Raise Exposure
- Climate change and more flights increase our exposure to jet-core turbulence by shifting and strengthening jet streams.
- More crowded flight lanes reduce pilots' flexibility to change altitude and avoid bumps.