There are countless benefits of chartering a private flight, from skipping the long security lines to enjoying a more relaxing or productive in-flight experience. However, there’s one question we get often from first-time private fliers: is turbulence worse on a private jet? Read on to find out.
What Causes Turbulence When Flying?
First, let’s talk about what turbulence actually is. Different atmospheric conditions can contribute to turbulence, the primary one being wind. Other contributing factors may include geographic features, like mountain peaks and valleys, weather fronts bringing in much warmer or colder temperatures, and jet streams. Basically, turbulence is a change in the motion of the air flowing around the plane. As the plane flies in one direction and the air moves in another, the plane gets jostled around.
Do Private Charters Experience More Turbulence?
This question is a little trickier to answer because there’s a difference between how much turbulence you’re flying through and how much you’re going to perceive that turbulence. Let’s say a private jet and a commercial plane encounter the exact same atmospheric conditions. Technically, they’re flying through the same amount of turbulence. However, the private jet is likely smaller than the commercial plane, which means it’s a little easier to jostle. In other words, you might perceive that you’re experiencing more turbulence on a private jet because the same conditions make for a bumpier ride.
Is Turbulence Safe on a Private Jet?
As aviation professionals, we know how unpleasant turbulence can be. When you’re high up in the air, that seemingly unpredictable movement feels unsafe. The good news is that it’s actually 100% safe to fly through turbulence, even on a private jet. Aircraft are constructed to handle all sorts of weather conditions, including the changes in air flow that cause turbulence. As long as you abide by your flight crew’s instructions to wear your seatbelt and secure your personal items during turbulence, you won’t need to worry.
How Are Turbulence Impacts Minimized on Private Charters?
Before taking off, your private pilot is prepped on all weather events and conditions in your flight path. In fact, they have a lot more leeway to alter your path and fly around turbulence than a commercial pilot. Plus, modern jet innovations have accounted for turbulence, incorporating seat designs and cabin layouts that help to absorb and stabilize that excess motion.
How Can You Prepare for Possible Turbulence on a Private Flight?
You’ve already taken one of the most important steps to prepare for private jet turbulence: you’ve learned about it. Though it still may not be anyone’s favorite part of flying, understanding what turbulence is and why it’s safe and normal can reduce feelings of flying anxiety. If you tend to experience motion sickness, you may want to pack whatever interventions tend to work best for you, such as Dramamine or acupressure wristbands. Otherwise, you can simply sit back, relax, and let North Dallas Aviation take care of the rest.