Ask Captain Lim ~ All about Aviation - Is it possible to have a fairly smooth ride on small aircraft?

Hello Captain Lim,

Firstly, I would like to thank you for your site. It has helped to calm more than a few of my fears about flying.

My question is this: Yesterday, I flew home from Newark, NJ to Boston, MA on an Embracer 135 and the ride was - well, coming to my mind - frightening! Granted that our area was experiencing a North Easterly storm that was bringing wind gusts up to 60-70 mph, the ride was the most turbulent that I have ever felt before.

I had never flown on a small jet before - rather usually on the Boeing 737 or 747 aircraft. I found out that I have to make the trip again in a week*s time and I am curious to know how the aircraft will respond in more "normal" conditions.

I know that you have stated in other answers that the smaller aircraft tends to be affected by turbulence more so than a larger aircraft, but is it possible to have a fairly smooth ride on one of these small aircraft?

Thanks,

Bob,
Fall River, MA

Hi Bob,

Yes, the turbulence felt on a smaller aircraft is more pronounced than on a bigger one like a Boeing 747-400. It is just like comparing a journey on a smaller steamer and an ocean liner - sometimes you hardly feel the waves on the ocean liner because of the size!

However, I must say that, if caught in severe turbulence - even on a big airplane like a Boeing 777, Airbus A330/340 or a Boeing 747-400 - it can be rough too. If you fly on a bad day, no one can escape the bumpiness of the flight!

Yes, on a "normal" day with some light turbulence, a small plane like the Embracer 135 can give you a fairly smooth ride too.

I can direct you to two websites to check on the turbulence reports or forecast. Please go here and here to see if your flight will be turbulent on the day of your flight.

Wish you a smooth flight on your next journey!