Emirates uses AI and real-time data to cut severe turbulence incidents

Emirates is using artificial intelligence, real-time weather data, and global turbulence tracking to significantly reduce severe turbulence incidents across its flight network. The airline’s multi-layered approach has already delivered measurable improvements over the past year, making flights safer and more comfortable while contributing valuable data to the broader aviation industry.

The big picture: Emirates has deployed an integrated technology framework combining three key systems to predict and avoid turbulence with unprecedented accuracy.

• SkyPath uses AI-driven machine learning and crowd-sourced data from thousands of aircraft worldwide to identify “clear-air turbulence” invisible to traditional radar.
• Lido mPilot from Lufthansa Systems provides live convection data, icing forecasts, and turbulence predictions sourced from partners like the German Weather Service.
• IATA’s Turbulence Aware programme enables real-time data exchange with airlines across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

How it works: The technology analyzes multiple data streams to create comprehensive turbulence predictions that pilots can visualize in real-time.

• SkyPath processes Eddy Dissipation Rate (EDR) data—the industry’s universal turbulence measure—along with transponder data and patented iPad accelerometer readings that convert device motion into turbulence measurements.
• All systems integrate into Emirates’ electronic flight bag charting application, allowing pilots to see live turbulence zones and plan safer flight paths.
• The predictive analytics help identify atmospheric conditions before they become problematic, enabling proactive route adjustments.

In plain English: Think of it like a sophisticated weather app for pilots that combines data from thousands of flights worldwide. Instead of just showing where storms are visible on radar, the system can detect invisible air pockets that cause sudden jolts by measuring how much planes shake and using AI to predict where similar conditions might occur.

Why this matters: Turbulence incidents are becoming more frequent and severe worldwide, making Emirates’ data-driven approach increasingly valuable for industry-wide safety improvements.

• The system supports not just passenger comfort but also fuel efficiency and operational resilience.
• Emirates contributes its flight data back to global aviation partners, creating a collaborative network effect that benefits the entire industry.

What they’re saying: Captain Hassan Alhammadi, Divisional Senior Vice President of Flight Operations at Emirates, emphasized the collaborative nature of their approach.

• “We recognise that turbulence remains an ongoing challenge that cannot be completely eliminated, but we’re committed to doing everything possible to minimise unexpected severe turbulence encounters through working with partners who share our vision of using advanced technologies and adopting AI to enhance operations,” he said.
• “While we cannot promise turbulence-free flights, these initiatives have contributed to a significant reduction in unexpected severe turbulence incidents over the past year, helping make journeys safer and more comfortable for our customers.”