Scientists are testing a new turbulence system that alerts pilots to patches of rough air as they fly through clouds. Designed by the National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), the new system promises to protect passengers from injuries caused by turbulence while reducing flight delays and lowering aviation costs.

It uses a mathematical method developed by NCAR scientists, known as the NEXRAD Turbulence Detection Algorithm, or NTDA, to analyze data obtained from the National Weather Service's network of Next-Generation (NEXRAD) Doppler radars.

The resulting real-time snapshot of turbulence is then transmitted to pilots in the cockpit and made available to airline meteorologists and dispatchers via a Web-based display.

"Pinpointing turbulence in clouds and thunderstorms is a major scientific challenge. Our goal is to use these radar measurements to create a three-dimensional mosaic showing turbulence across the country that can help pilots avoid hazardous areas, or at least give them enough warning to turn on the 'fasten seat belt' sign," said NCAR scientist John Williams. Presently, United Airlines pilots are testing the system.

So far, pilots have reported receiving accurate information about turbulence from the system that is not available from any other source.

"The messages I've received in the cockpit gave a very accurate picture of turbulence location and intensity. The depiction of turbulence intensity provides an unprecedented and extremely valuable new tool for pilot situational awareness," said captain Rocky Stone, chief technical pilot for United Airlines.

Williams said, depending on the results of this year's tests, NCAR will expand the system to additional United aircraft or other airlines.

Williams said, by 2011, the NTDA would provide input to a system over the contiguous United States, which will update comprehensive turbulence "nowcasts" for pilots and air traffic managers every 15 minutes.

"We hope this will provide a significant boost to the aviation industry in terms of passenger comfort, safety, and reduced costs," National Geographic quoted Williams, as saying.