

It causes rapid bumps or jolts without appreciable changes in aircraft altitude or attitude.

Report as Moderate Turbulence 1orTurbulence that is similar to Light Chop but of greater intensity. It usually causes variations in indicated airspeed. Changes in altitude and/or attitude occur but the aircraft remains in positive control at all times. Turbulence that is similar to Light Turbulence but of greater intensity. Food service may be conducted and little or no difficulty is encountered in walking. Unsecured objects may be displaced slightly. Occupants may feel a slight strain against seat belts or shoulder straps. Report as Light Turbulence 1orTurbulence that causes slight, rapid and somewhat rhythmic bumpiness without appreciable changes in altitude or attitude. Turbulence that momentarily causes slight, erratic changes in altitude and/or attitude (pitch, roll, yaw). Turbulence Reporting Criteria Table Intensity Table 7-1-9 in the AIM defines the differences well. That being said, chop and turbulence can exist at varying intensities and varying frequencies, and it’s critically important to understand both. What’s the difference between turbulence and chop?Īs mentioned above, the main difference is that turbulence causes an “appreciable” change in altitude or attitude, while chop does not. It’s important to understand and recognize the difference in chop and turbulence, as well as their respective intensities, so that we can make better flight planning decisions and offer more accurate pilot reports in the air.

Chop can only be reported as light or moderate, while turbulence can be light, moderate, severe, or extreme. They sound similar, but what’s the difference between chop and turbulence?Ĭhop causes bumps or jolts without an appreciable impact on altitude or attitude (pitch, roll, or raw), whereas turbulence causes bumps or jolts that do cause changes in altitude or attitude. Flying during pristine mornings and tranquil sunsets are some of the most enjoyable moments as an aviator, but many times the air is not smooth and we hear pilots report chop or turbulence in their flight.
