Classification
Description
Inside Aircraft
Light
Momentarily causes slight erratic changes in
Occupants may feel a
altitude and/or attitude (pitch, roll, or yaw).
flight strain against seat
belts or shoulder straps.
Unsecured objects may
be displaced slightly.
Moderate
Similar to light turbulence but of greater
Occupants feel definite
intensity, although the aircraft remains in
strains against seat
positive control at all times.
belts or shoulder straps.
Unsecured objects are
dislodged.
Severe
Causes large abrupt changes in altitude
Occupants are forced
and/or attitude. Aircraft may be momentarily
violently against seat
out of control.
belts or shoulder straps.
Unsecured objects are
tossed about.
Extreme
Causes aircraft to be violently tossed about.
Aircraft may be practically out of control.
Table 1-14 -- Four intensity categories of turbulence
NOTE
Pilots should report location, altitude or range of altitudes,
type of aircraft, air temperature, intensity, duration, type of
turbulence, and whether in clouds or clear air.
In any case of reported turbulence, relay the information to other pilots in the area and
to the station weather office for dissemination. Aircraft type is important when you deal
with turbulence reports since intensities are based on aircraft reaction to the turbulence.
A report of moderate turbulence by a Cessna 150 would cause little concern to a C5A
pilot.
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are an extremely violent and formidable weather hazard. Thunderstorms
are almost always accompanied by strong gusts of wind, severe turbulence, and
occasional hail. You must relay thunderstorm information to a pilot and occasionally
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