Under what conditions would aircraft turbulence most likely occur?

Aircraft turbulence is most likely to occur in regions of thunderstorms due to the intense atmospheric disturbances associated with these weather phenomena. Thunderstorms generate strong updrafts and downdrafts within the storm clouds, leading to significant and often violent changes in air movement. This turbulent air can extend well beyond the storm itself, creating hazardous conditions for aircraft that are either flying through the storm or nearby.

When flying in proximity to thunderstorms, pilots must be particularly vigilant, as the turbulence can be unpredictable and may even occur at altitudes far removed from the storm clouds. This is why regions with convective activity, such as those involving thunderstorms, are recognized as high-risk areas for turbulence.

Other conditions, such as clear weather or calm days, typically provide more stable air conditions where turbulence is less frequent or intense. Night flights do not inherently increase turbulence, though flying at night during turbulent weather can be more challenging as visual cues are limited. Thus, the presence of thunderstorms is clearly the predominant factor leading to turbulence in aviation.