In brief
- Turbulence forecasting websites and apps use publicly available sources, which we’ve included below
- You can access the turbulence forecasting tools used by websites like Turbli and Turbulenceforecast.com for free with Fly Above Fear
- These maps and resources provide an insight into how the models are created, but are complex and typically used and understood by professionals
- Weather is dynamic and rapidly changing and forecasts aren’t always accurate
Weather forecasting tools for aviation
Pilots, flight planners and aviation experts use a variety of forecasting tools to predict weather conditions during flight, including jet stream forecasts and convection potential. They also get information from a variety of sources, including pilot reports (PIREPS).
The information here is accessible to everyone, and we wanted to share it – however much of the forecasts and links here are really only for professional pilots and aviation experts.
It can be fun to explore these tools and learn about all the ways people are working to keep your flight safe and smooth.
ECMWF Clear Air Turbulence (CAT)
High-resolution forecast of Clear Air Turbulence using the ECMWF Control Forecast. Recommended for cruise-level planning.
Open CAT Forecast →Jet Stream Forecast
Upper-level wind forecasts showing jet stream position and intensity. Useful for anticipating turbulence near jet boundaries.
View Jet Stream →SIGWX / Aviation Hazards
Significant Weather charts showing turbulence, icing, thunderstorms and other operational hazards.
Open SIGWX →Windy ECMWF Model
Interactive weather maps using the ECMWF model including winds, clouds, precipitation and pressure.
Launch Windy →ECMWF MUCAPE Convective Potential
Forecast of atmospheric instability showing areas where thunderstorms and convective activity are more likely to develop. Useful for identifying potential convective hazards during flight planning.
View MUCAPE Forecast →Pilot Reports (PIREPs)
Explanation of pilot reports, including how turbulence, icing and other in-flight observations are reported and interpreted.
Understand PIREPs →Understanding Turbulence
- Light: Slight bumps with little effect on aircraft control.
- Moderate: Noticeable changes in altitude and attitude.
- Severe: Large abrupt altitude changes requiring significant control input.
- Extreme: Aircraft control may become impossible temporarily.
