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In flight turbulence on the rise due to climate change
Airline passengers around the world face a bigger threat of turbulence in the air, due to climate change.
The first study of its kind has been published by the American Geophysical Union and says the frequency of severe turbulent incidents will increase significantly worldwide by 2050-2080.
Severe turbulence at a cruising altitude of 39,000 feet will more than double by then.
It predicts flights over North America will get bumpier by more than 110%, in Europe 160% more common and in Asia turbulent flights will increase by 60%.
"Air turbulence is increasing across the globe, in all seasons, and at multiple cruising altitudes. This problem is only going to worsen as the climate continues to change," said study lead author, Paul Williams, professor of atmospheric science at the University of Reading in the UK.
"Our study highlights the need to develop improved turbulence forecasts, which could reduce the risk of injuries to passengers and lower the cost of turbulence to airlines."
The study also calculates the first ever turbulence projections for the Southern Hemisphere and tropical regions which will increase by about 50%-60% in South America, Australia and Africa.
"While turbulence does not usually pose a major danger to flights, it is responsible for hundreds of passenger injuries every year. It is also by far the most common cause of serious injuries to flight attendants. Turbulence is thought to cost US air carriers up to $200 million annually," said co-author Luke Storer.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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