I believe it's real and I believe it's going to get worse. And I think that AF447 is just a sign. I hope I'm wrong
Global Warming is real and it will effect areas already known for turbulent weather to produce even more severe conditions. The biggest issue would be the ocean temperture increasing, hence causing storms to intensify to levels we may never have seen before. The ocean temperture in the ITCZ was about 80f, I believe, which is very warm.
With Global Warming becoming a issue, traditional routes may need to alter to avoid these weather patterns. Just my opinion......