Ask the Captain: Which airport is toughest for night landings? Can aircraft avoid turbulence?

Which is the most confusing airport to land at during the night?

– Phil                            

I do not have a single airport that sticks in my mind as “the most confusing.” Boston is challenging due to the number of runway crossing locations with multiple taxiways flowing into intersections. Chicago O’Hare can be challenging due to the size and complexity of the terminal ramp areas and the number of runways.  

With modern moving map displays, taxiing at large airports is much easier than it was in the past. 

Can a passenger aircraft avoid turbulence? Is there any early warning system for turbulence?

– Sal

Aircraft do avoid turbulence. Pilots get reports from other aircraft, then modify their route and use meteorologists to avoid forecast areas of turbulence. 

There are some experimental technologies that are being tested to detect turbulence, but they are not proven yet. 

Turbulence can be unexpected, particularly clear-air turbulence. It is important to keep your seat belt fastened when in your seat. Most passenger injuries occur when encountering unexpected turbulence without their seat belt being fastened.  

Are you friends with Capt. Sully? 

– T.W., Los Angeles

Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger and I have known each other since the late '80s. We worked together on safety issues at US Air/US Airways. Yes, we are friends and try to see each other when we can. 

He is a great spokesman for aviation. 

John Cox is a retired airline captain with US Airways and runs his own aviation safety consulting company, Safety Operating Systems.