Private jet turbulence, while unavoidable, is often less severe than that experienced on commercial flights. Their ability to fly at higher altitudes allows private jets to avoid crowded airways and weather systems that contribute to turbulence. Passengers can expect smoother rides with minimal disruptions. However, when turbulence does occur, the compact size of private jets may result in more noticeable jolts.
Nothing is worse than being thousands of feet in the sky and feeling the jerks and jolts of private jet turbulence. It can be enough to spill your drink; if you aren’t seated and buckled in your seat, it can knock you down.
Turbulence can happen on any aircraft – big and small. And it seems to be less common on private jets than it is on large, commercial aircraft. What causes it? And what determines its level of impact? Below you will find everything you need to know about private jet turbulence.
What is Private Jet Turbulence?
When you first step into the cabin of a private jet, you are surrounded by a luxury that cannot be matched by any other type of flight experience. You sit back and relax, expecting a smooth flight.
However, once they take to the friendly skies, they risk being faced with turbulence — pockets of air that may be caused by several different things, including:
- Changes in wind speed
- Changes in humidity
- Changes in air pressure
- Changes in temperature
- Wakes created by other nearby aircraft
- The terrain’s topography
Each can cause the aircraft to feel like it is hitting bumps and potholes as if it were driving along a roadway.
The amount of turbulence an aircraft encounters depends on a few things, such as the size of the aircraft, the speed at which it is traveling, and the altitude it is flying. Sometimes, jets know that turbulence is ahead, and adjustments can be made to avoid it. Other times, it is a surprise to everyone on board.
Different Types of Private Jet Turbulence
Believe it or not, not all turbulence is created equally. Because it has different causes, it also leads to different types. Each will impact a private jet with unexpected movement and bumps — and it can happen anytime during the flight. Below are the most common types of turbulence.
Clean Air Turbulence
This is one of the most common types of turbulence to impact jets that have reached their cruising altitude, typically well above 15,000 feet. A shift in both the wind speed and the wind direction causes this. And it cannot be detected ahead of time to be avoided.
Topographic or Mechanical Turbulence
Topographic and mechanical are two additional types of turbulence that play a role together. This occurs as the wind hits a large object, such as a big hill or mountain, and is sent upwards, impacting the air around the jet.
Wake Turbulence
Wake turbulence is caused by surrounding aircraft. It creates rough and turbulent air, just as if one boat in the water were following closely behind another. Wake turbulence is easily avoided thanks to air traffic control. If you have ever wondered why you must wait to take off behind another jet, this is why.
Convective Turbulence
Experiencing turbulence due to a thunderstorm is relatively common. This is because of cooler and warmer air coming together. As a result, it creates strong drafts that lead to turbulence.
Thermal Turbulence
Thermal turbulence happens when a jet comes in contact with a pocket of hot air. This air rises from the earth’s surface.
How Private Jets Handle Turbulence
Private jets are much smaller than commercial airliners. This makes them more susceptible to turbulence. Fortunately, their size makes them much easier to maneuver, allowing them to reach cruising altitudes higher than many types of turbulence. The result is a smoother, more enjoyable flight on a luxury aircraft.
Further, private jets are equipped with the latest tools and technology to handle turbulence much more efficiently. It can be avoided as much as possible when paired with skilled flight crews.
Is Turbulence Dangerous?
Navigation and weather radar tools allow pilots to bypass a lot of turbulence, though it generally does not pose a threat or safety concern for pilots.
Many passengers worry that turbulence can cause a plane to crash. But, aircraft are built to withstand significant turbulence while keeping passengers safe.
It is important to note that because private jets are lighter, they are more likely to be impacted by air pockets. It can throw them off course and cause a greater impact on passengers. At the same time, private jets are lighter and easier to maneuver —- avoiding turbulence before it happens.
Surprisingly, this agile aircraft rarely encounters turbulence.
Fly Smoothly With Sun Air Jets
Despite the possibility of turbulence, many people travel via private jets daily. This is because they understand that trusting their flight crew – and in the jet itself – can give them peace of mind for the trip.
Sure, turbulence can be scary when it happens out of nowhere, even more so when it is severe. Having a world-class flight crew that is highly skilled and trained can give you the best opportunity for a smooth flight. And, should any turbulence arise, you can feel confident that whoever is in the cockpit will see you through it safely.
At Sun Air Jets, we ensure our pilots are distinguished with routine training that will keep their skills sharp at all times. This enhances the flight experience onboard private jets. And credit should be given to the superior aircraft maintenance technicians that ensure all navigation and weather radar tools are functioning optimally to catch turbulence before it happens.
Conclusion
Do you have travel plans? If you want a hassle-free way to get to your destination with minimal risk of turbulence, consider booking a charter flight with Sun Air Jets. We have a versatile charter fleet, an unparalleled commitment to safety, and an exemplary flight crew to get you where you need to go.
Contact our charter team to book your flight today.