The topic of “UFO” has recently become relevant. Here is some information on this topic.
Definition
Generally, UFO is defined as a phenomenon in the sky looking like a light, solid object, or a combination of these, whose true nature or source cannot be determined.
Objects referred as UFOs
● contrails or flares, search-lights and other ground lights
● weather oddities, like clouds or lightning storms;
● astronomical objects such as meteors, comets;
● satellites;
● high-speed or military aircraft;
● rocket launches or missiles;
● weather balloons;
● kites, balloons from kids’ birthday parties;
Hazards to aviation
● distraction from flying aircraft;
● risk of near miss;
● instrument malfunctions;
Definition
Generally, UFO is defined as a phenomenon in the sky looking like a light, solid object, or a combination of these, whose true nature or source cannot be determined.
Objects referred as UFOs
● contrails or flares, search-lights and other ground lights
● weather oddities, like clouds or lightning storms;
● astronomical objects such as meteors, comets;
● satellites;
● high-speed or military aircraft;
● rocket launches or missiles;
● weather balloons;
● kites, balloons from kids’ birthday parties;
Hazards to aviation
● distraction from flying aircraft;
● risk of near miss;
● instrument malfunctions;
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Clear Air Turbulence (CAT)
Definition
Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) is defined as sudden severe turbulence occurring in cloudless regions that causes violent buffeting of aircraft.
There are two types of CAT:
• Mechanical. Disruption to the smooth horizontal flow of air.
• Thermal. Turbulence caused by vertical currents of air in an unstable atmosphere.
Common causes and sources of CAT are:
• Jet Stream. In the vicinity of a jet stream, CAT can be encountered anywhere from 7,000 feet below to about 3,000 feet.
• Terrain. High ground disturbs the horizontal flow of air over it, causing turbulence. The severity of the turbulence depends on the strength of the air flow and the roughness of the terrain.
• Thunderstorm. Cb cells have strong vertical currents. Aircraft passing within 20 nautical miles horizontally, or less than 5,000 feet above the top, of a Cb may encounter CAT.
Definition
Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) is defined as sudden severe turbulence occurring in cloudless regions that causes violent buffeting of aircraft.
There are two types of CAT:
• Mechanical. Disruption to the smooth horizontal flow of air.
• Thermal. Turbulence caused by vertical currents of air in an unstable atmosphere.
Common causes and sources of CAT are:
• Jet Stream. In the vicinity of a jet stream, CAT can be encountered anywhere from 7,000 feet below to about 3,000 feet.
• Terrain. High ground disturbs the horizontal flow of air over it, causing turbulence. The severity of the turbulence depends on the strength of the air flow and the roughness of the terrain.
• Thunderstorm. Cb cells have strong vertical currents. Aircraft passing within 20 nautical miles horizontally, or less than 5,000 feet above the top, of a Cb may encounter CAT.
Effects
• Structural Damage. Aircraft can suffer structural damage. In even moderate turbulence, damage can occur to fittings within the aircraft, especially as a result of collision with unrestrained items of cargo or passenger luggage.
• Physical Injury to Crew or Passengers. If caught unaware, passengers and crew moving around in the aircraft cabin can be injured.
• Impaired Flight Crew Performance. Moderate or Severe turbulence can make simple tasks, including reading instruments, near impossible.
Defences
• Awareness. SIGMET charts give forecasts of the location and level of clear air turbulence. Information on local terrain induced CAT may be contained in appropriate AIPs.
• Restraint Systems. Passengers and crew should fit seat belts when seated to protect them in the event of unforeseen turbulence.
• Structural Damage. Aircraft can suffer structural damage. In even moderate turbulence, damage can occur to fittings within the aircraft, especially as a result of collision with unrestrained items of cargo or passenger luggage.
• Physical Injury to Crew or Passengers. If caught unaware, passengers and crew moving around in the aircraft cabin can be injured.
• Impaired Flight Crew Performance. Moderate or Severe turbulence can make simple tasks, including reading instruments, near impossible.
Defences
• Awareness. SIGMET charts give forecasts of the location and level of clear air turbulence. Information on local terrain induced CAT may be contained in appropriate AIPs.
• Restraint Systems. Passengers and crew should fit seat belts when seated to protect them in the event of unforeseen turbulence.
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