Myths About Air Turbulence

Bad weather can cause dreaded air turbulence. This aircraft is flying in the eye of Hurricane Caroline in 2001.(Photo: NOAA)For many fliers, encountering air turbulence is the most challenging aspect of any flight. The effects of turbulence, which can cause an aircraft to shake and move suddenly and erratically from side to side or up and down, can be distressing and even frightening, sparking fear that the airplane is out of control and about to crash or break apart.