In general, turbulence can occur throughout an aircraft, including both the front and back sections. However, it is commonly observed that passengers seated at the back of an airplane may experience more pronounced and noticeable turbulence compared to those seated towards the front. There are a few reasons for this:
Center of Gravity: The center of gravity of an airplane is typically located towards the front, closer to the cockpit. When turbulence or disturbances in the airflow occur, the front part of the aircraft tends to react to them first, causing the nose of the plane to move. Passengers seated towards the back may feel these movements more significantly as they propagate through the plane.
Damping Effect: The motion of the aircraft tends to dampen as it propagates towards the rear. The front part of the plane absorbs the initial impact of turbulence, and by the time the motion reaches the back, it may be less intense but more noticeable due to a lack of damping.
Lever Arm Effect: The lever arm effect is related to the distance between the aircraft's center of gravity and the passengers' seating position. As you move towards the back of the plane, the lever arm increases, meaning that the motion of the aircraft has a greater effect on the passengers seated further back.
It's important to note that the severity of turbulence can vary depending on several factors, including weather conditions, altitude, and the specific flight route. Airlines and pilots take precautions to avoid areas of severe turbulence whenever possible, but it's not always predictable or completely avoidable.
If you're concerned about experiencing turbulence during a flight, you may consider choosing a seat closer to the front of the aircraft or over the wings. These areas tend to experience less noticeable turbulence compared to the rear. Additionally, following the instructions and safety guidelines provided by the flight crew during turbulent periods is essential for your safety and comfort.