To help avoid the problems that result from undetectable clear air turbulence, engineers are in the process of developing a laser detection system.
Often times, airplanes hitting pockets of turbulence is a little scary, and a bit inconvenient.
On the occasions when the turbulence is more intense, though, it can cause significant damage and personal injuries.
The menace reportedly costs airlines hundreds of millions of dollars a year in repairs to planes and medical payments to passengers and crew.
To help avoid the problems, engineers are in the process of developing a laser detection system that could eventually provide an advance warning.
The particular type being targeted is clear air turbulence, considered to be among the most dangerous because of its stealth.
It forms when two masses of air moving at different speeds collide.
The device currently being tested on a small plane in Europe uses ultraviolet laser beams to measure air density changes in front of the aircraft.
The technology currently being tested has a reach of up to 9 miles, but scientists from the joint European project said their goal is a 20-mile range.
It’s hoped that ultimately the technology will be able to alert pilots and give them enough time change their course and avoid clear air turbulence regions.
