Turbulence Information Exchange Broadens - Turbulence-Centric Platform
Air travel is set to become more comfortable and efficient, thanks to a groundbreaking initiative by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The introduction of Turbulence Aware, a platform for real-time turbulence data sharing among airlines, is transforming the industry.
Launched in December 2018, Turbulence Aware aims to reduce exposure to turbulence and make it predictable. This innovative platform allows airlines to share and use turbulence data in real time, improving flight safety, reducing weather-related diversions, and supporting more fuel-efficient routing by minimizing time spent in turbulent zones.
The program, which continues to expand its member airlines, currently includes major players such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Aer Lingus, Air France, American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, China Southern Airlines, EasyJet, Japan Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Southwest, Swiss, WestJet, and the latest addition, Arajet, which has partnered with IATA to enhance flight safety and efficiency in the Caribbean and Latin America.
The regions operated by these airline members cover a very large part of the world, benefiting a vast number of passengers. The program allows for flights to continue without changing the route in non-severe turbulence conditions, saving time and fuel.
Turbulence Aware is accessible to the cockpit team through tablet PCs, enabling pilots to instantly see turbulence points and their level on the route. This instant visibility minimizes the risk of passenger and cabin crew injuries, especially in extreme turbulence conditions.
Moreover, the platform facilitates easier turbulence predictions and the avoidance of turbulences on certain routes, reducing fuel losses due to speed loss caused by turbulence and carbon emissions related to these incidents.
Anonymously sharing turbulence data ensures the privacy of the airline's commercial operations. IATA collaborates with a software company called Snowflake Software for the development of Turbulence Aware, demonstrating the power of collaboration in the airline industry.
Turbulence Aware is an example of "big data" usage in the airline industry, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future for air travel. By minimizing time spent in turbulent zones, the platform contributes to lower fuel burn and emissions, enhancing sustainability in air travel.
In summary, Turbulence Aware is positively affecting air travel efficiency, safety, and sustainability by integrating real-time turbulence data into operations. With Arajet confirmed as a participating airline, the program is set to expand its global reach, making air travel safer and more efficient for all.
- The collaboration between IATA and Snowflake Software, a data-and-cloud-computing technology firm, is key to the development of Turbulence Aware, showcasing the importance of technology in the aerospace industry.
- The introduction of Turbulence Aware in the finance sector, through its potential cost savings from reduced fuel consumption and weather-related diversions, may have a profound impact on the business operations of airlines.
- As Turbulence Aware continues to grow its member airlines, it is poised to revolutionize the air travel industry, making operations safer, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly through the use of real-time turbulence data.
