Alaska Air Seeks to Smooth Out Any Bumpy Rides

I’m a “less than relaxed” flyer and my radio pal Lance is basically a nervous wreck! We both HATE  turbulence!  The Northwest’s prime provider Alaska Airlines understands and feels our pain..and anxiety, so they are using new computer software that transmits weather data from planes in the air to analysts on the ground, with the hope that the new information can help pilots prepare for or avoid turbulence entirely.

American Airlines is using the program too in hope of happier customers and fewer costly expenses due to passenger injuries and plane damage caused by a bumpy journey.

The manager of flight planning and weather support for American Airlines says the reports used to be issued after the fact, after the turbulence has occurred.  Now, with this technology, the aircraft gets reports in real time.

The FAA reports that there have been between 12 and 76 injuries to travelers and airline personnel every year since 2002 due to turbulence, and that each instance of turbulence typically costs airlines an average of between $28,000 and $167,000. (Consumerist)