Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has joined the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Turbulence Aware program.
This initiative aims to improve flight safety and passenger comfort by sharing real-time turbulence data across participating airlines.
With Etihad’s participation, the program gains further valuable data from its extensive global network, benefiting the aviation industry worldwide.
The Rising Concern of Inflight Turbulence
Inflight turbulence has become a growing concern in recent years, with evidence suggesting an increase in both its frequency and intensity. Several factors, including climate change, contribute to this trend, though the issue is complex and multifaceted.
High-profile turbulence incidents have raised public awareness. For example, a Singapore Airlines flight in May 2024 encountered severe turbulence, resulting in one fatality and dozens of injuries. Such events, while rare, underscore the potential dangers of unexpected turbulence.
IATA reported over 51 million turbulence reports in 2024 via its Turbulence Aware program, reflecting heightened monitoring and data collection.
While this doesn’t directly confirm more turbulence, it highlights the aviation industry’s focus on addressing it.
The Turbulence Aware Platform
The Turbulence Aware platform collects anonymized turbulence data from flights operated by member airlines. This information allows pilots and flight dispatchers to make informed decisions, plotting smoother and more fuel-efficient flight paths.
By reducing the impact of turbulence, the program enhances passenger comfort and safety while optimizing operational efficiency.
Etihad will implement the Turbulence Aware platform across its fleet of nearly 100 Airbus and Boeing aircraft. These planes will automatically share turbulence reports with the IATA program, contributing to a growing pool of real-time data.
As Etihad’s network spans five continents, its involvement strengthens the program’s coverage, particularly in the Middle East and beyond.
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Etihad’s Interim Chief Operations and Guest Officer, emphasized the airline’s commitment to safety. “Joining IATA’s Turbulence Aware program aligns with our dedication to providing safe and smooth journeys.”
“By leveraging our fleet and network, we’re helping the industry better manage turbulence with accurate, real-time data,” he said.
Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East, welcomed Etihad’s participation. “Timely and accurate turbulence data is critical for safer flights and improved passenger experiences.”
“Etihad’s contribution enhances our ability to mitigate turbulence effects in real time, supporting safer and more efficient operations globally,” he noted.
Current Program Participation
The Turbulence Aware program grows stronger as more airlines join. Currently, over 25 airlines participate, with more than 2,600 aircraft running the software.
In 2024 alone, the platform generated over 51 million turbulence reports, showcasing its scale and impact. As more carriers contribute, the data quality continues to improve, benefiting the entire aviation industry.
About Etihad Airways
Established in 2003, Etihad Airways is the UAE’s national airline, based in Abu Dhabi. Renowned for its world-class service, Etihad operates flights to passenger and cargo destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America.
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