MET: Jetstreams
 

Good day all.

Seeing there are so many experienced pilots in these forums, I have a question regarding the aforementioned phenomena.

All my "experience" from jetstreams, and higher altitude operations in general, are pure theoretical (from ATPL theory). Ground school thaught me about turbulent areas, different jetstream patterns etc.

So how are these handled? What is the entry or avoidance procedures? How do you consider the possibility of CAT?

Hi there,

From my encounter, if the Jet core is reported to be at FL 350, usually, plus minus 2000ft from the core is relatively calm, if it might be quite turbulent when passing thru 4000ft below the core all the way to around FL200.

The best way to enter a JET stream is to go at best ROC to get pass the turbulent region as fast as possible.

Usually, the sigmet charts will indicate where the CAT regions are. The CAT regions are way too big as well as too vague to avoid. Only thing to do is to prepare the cabin earlier (PAX a/c), complete all paperwork and get ready for the turbulent times. Sometimes, the CAT might not be there at all :)

Just my five cents worth, hope to hear more from the experience guys,

Cheers,
lion-g

Change of altitude can make a big difference, ie stay out of the boundary layer where high and low speed air mixes. Be very careful encountering jetstreams when flying in coffin corner.

Our flight plans show expected turbulance at each waypoint so a bit of planning can be done on that basis.

Nice sitting with a 120kt tailwind, not so great going the other way.:ugh:

Look for steep temperature gradients, normally on the polar side of the jet, indicating possible shear and turbulence.