Planes can suddenly drop in altitude primarily due to turbulence, which are disruptions in airflow.
Understanding Turbulence
Turbulence is the main reason why aircraft might experience sudden changes in altitude. According to BBC Weather's Simon King, a former RAF officer, most turbulence occurs in clouds where up- and downdrafts of wind are present. Frequent flyers are familiar with the jolting caused by turbulence, which can significantly move the plane and cause sudden changes in height.
Causes of Turbulence:
- Cloud Activity: Up- and downdrafts within clouds can cause significant turbulence.
- Wind Shear: Sudden changes in wind speed or direction can create turbulent conditions.
- Wake Turbulence: The wake of a larger aircraft can also cause smaller aircraft to experience turbulence.
While alarming, most turbulence is not dangerous. Pilots are trained to handle these situations, and modern aircraft are built to withstand significant turbulence. Clear-air turbulence can be more challenging to avoid as it is not associated with visible clouds.
