Luftunruhe

Luftunruhe, literally air unrest, is a term used in meteorology and aviation to describe irregular air motion that can affect aircraft in flight. It encompasses a range of phenomena, including convective turbulence, mechanical turbulence near terrain or structures, wind shear in jet streams, and wake turbulence from preceding aircraft. Luftunruhe can occur at cruise levels as well as lower altitudes and is more common near storm systems or mountainous regions.

Causes include atmospheric instability and rising or descending air currents, strong horizontal winds changing with height, and the interaction of air masses with obstacles. Turbulence can be experienced alone or in combination with gusts, updrafts, and downdrafts.

Detection and reporting: Pilots communicate turbulence encounters to air traffic control and relay PIREPs to help others assess conditions. Meteorological services issue forecasts and advisories about turbulence, and aircraft may be equipped with weather radar, onboard sensors, and other instruments to detect rough air. Classification typically ranges from light to moderate to severe, with extreme turbulence being rare.

Impacts and safety: Turbulence can cause passenger discomfort and, in unsecured conditions, injuries. While modern aircraft are designed to withstand turbulence, rapid changes in air motion can affect the flight path and cabin safety. The crew may adjust speed or altitude to minimize exposure.

Mitigation: The primary safety measures are seat belt use when seated, avoidance through weather routing and altitude changes, and reliance on formal turbulence forecasts and real-time observations from pilots and dispatchers.

See also: Turbulence, Aviation weather, Clear-air turbulence.