Definition
A standardized scale used by pilots to report turbulence intensity to air traffic control and other pilots. The scale uses four categories — Light, Moderate, Severe, and Extreme — based on observable effects on the aircraft and its occupants, such as changes in altitude or attitude, strain on seat belts, difficulty walking in the cabin, and whether the pilot can maintain control.
Plain English
A common scale pilots use to describe how rough the ride is, from a little bumpy to violently tossed around. Using the same words means everyone understands exactly how bad the turbulence was.
Context Anchor
Used when giving a turbulence report to air traffic control, making a pilot weather report, or reading turbulence information before or during a flight.
Derivation
Turbulence comes from a Latin word meaning disturbance or disorder. Criteria comes from a Greek word meaning standards for judging. Together, the phrase means the standards used to judge and report disturbed air.
Why Pilots Care
Consistent reports let ATC issue timely advisories and allow other pilots to anticipate and avoid hazardous conditions.
Intuition Check
Do not treat turbulence reporting criteria as a comfort rating. It is a standard way to describe the aircraft’s reaction and the effect on people and loose items.
Example Sentence 1
After hitting bumpy air over the ridge, the pilot used the standard turbulence reporting criteria to call in moderate turbulence at 7,500 feet.
Example Sentence 2
Before takeoff the briefer used turbulence reporting criteria to interpret recent reports for the route.