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Aviation glossary

Clear Air Turbulence

What is clear air turbulence?

Illustration related to clear air turbulence
Image: FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28), Figure 25-27 — public domain

Clear air turbulence (CAT) is turbulence that occurs without any visible moisture—meaning there are no clouds to warn you it's coming. Because it strikes in seemingly smooth, clear skies, it can catch a flight crew off guard. Think of it as invisible bumps in the road: you can't see them ahead, so they often arrive as a sudden jolt.

Also known as: CAT, clear air turbulence

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