FAA Commercial Pilot Airplane (CAX)WeatherMedium
A pilot is flying in an area where PIREPs indicate 'MOD TURB' between 8,000 and 12,000 feet MSL. What is the appropriate interpretation of moderate turbulence?
- AAircraft reaction to turbulence is negligible; occupants feel slight bumps.
- BMomentary, slight changes in aircraft attitude and/or altitude.
- CAircraft is violently tossed about and is practically impossible to control. Structural damage may occur.
- DChanges in altitude and/or attitude occur, but the aircraft remains in positive control at all times. Occupants feel strain against seatbelts.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Changes in altitude and/or attitude occur, but the aircraft remains in positive control at all times. Occupants feel strain against seatbelts.
Moderate turbulence is characterized by changes in altitude and/or attitude (pitch, roll, yaw) that occur, but the aircraft remains in positive control at all times. Occupants feel strain against seatbelts, and unsecured objects are dislodged. Food service and walking are difficult.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This describes light chop or very light turbulence.
- B. This describes light turbulence.
- C. This describes severe turbulence.
Turbulence Intensity
A classification system (Light, Moderate, Severe, Extreme) used in PIREPs to describe the intensity of atmospheric turbulence and its effects on aircraft.
- Pilot judgment is key in reporting.
- Important for hazard avoidance and flight planning.
- Each category has specific aircraft and occupant effects.
Memory trick: Light, Moderate, Severe, Extreme – each bumpier, a pilot's bad dream.