air pocket
/ˈer ˌpɑːkɪt/
Meaning
An air pocket is a localized region of low air pressure or a sudden downdraft that causes an aircraft to drop abruptly, creating a brief sensation of falling. It is a common cause of minor turbulence. While it can be alarming to passengers, it is generally harmless and a normal part of flying.
Examples
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The plane hit an air pocket, causing several loose items in the cabin to slide off the tray tables.
The plane hit an air pocket, causing several loose items in the cabin to slide off the tray tables.
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Don't worry, it was just a small air pocket; the aircraft is perfectly safe.
Don't worry, it was just a small air pocket; the aircraft is perfectly safe.
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I spilled my coffee when the flight suddenly hit an air pocket over the mountains.
I spilled my coffee when the flight suddenly hit an air pocket over the mountains.
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The sudden drop felt like we hit an air pocket, but the pilot quickly stabilized the plane.
The sudden drop felt like we hit an air pocket, but the pilot quickly stabilized the plane.
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Passengers are advised to keep their seatbelts fastened in case we encounter an unexpected air pocket.
Passengers are advised to keep their seatbelts fastened in case we encounter an unexpected air pocket.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The plane fell into a wind pocket.
✓ The plane fell into an air pocket.
'Wind pocket' is not a standard term; the correct aviation collocation is 'air pocket'.
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✗ We experienced a violent air pocket during the storm.
✓ We hit a violent air pocket during the storm.
While 'experienced' is grammatically correct, native speakers typically use the verbs 'hit' or 'encounter' when referring to air pockets.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The flight attendant warned us that hitting an ___ might cause a sudden jolt.
💡 A pocket of low pressure causing a sudden drop.
Show answer
air pocket
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As we flew over the Rockies, the aircraft hit a massive ___ that startled the passengers.
💡 A localized downdraft.
Show answer
air pocket