If a pilot encounters sudden severe turbulence, what should they do?

When a pilot encounters sudden severe turbulence, the appropriate response is to reduce airspeed and maintain a steady altitude. This approach is vital for several reasons.

Reducing airspeed minimizes the aircraft's structural load as it encounters the turbulent air. Aircraft are designed to withstand certain levels of stress, and by slowing down, pilots can help ensure they stay within safe operating limits, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the aircraft. Additionally, maintaining altitude is important because abrupt altitude changes can complicate the situation, potentially putting the aircraft in even more turbulent conditions or leading to loss of control.

In contrast, attempts to change altitude suddenly, such as immediately ascending or doing so quickly, can exacerbate the situation by subjecting the aircraft to more turbulence, as the pilot may inadvertently enter a zone of increased instability during the climb. Making sharp turns is also not advisable; it could lead to increased G-forces, which may affect aircraft control and passenger safety.

Thus, the most prudent course of action in the face of sudden severe turbulence is to reduce airspeed and keep a steady altitude, providing a stable environment for both the crew and passengers during the turbulence.