Chaotic, swirling air currents caused by weather fronts, jet streams, thunderstorms, or air spilling over mountain ranges. When an aircraft flies through these disturbed air masses, it experiences rapid changes in lift and altitude. While rarely dangerous to the airframe, severe turbulence can injure unbuckled passengers and crew.
Heard on the job
Center, United 455 is requesting flight level three-five-zero to get out of this moderate chop and turbulence.
Also heard as
- chop
- rough air