Which type of turbulence phenomenon can be avoided by changing altitude a few thousand feet?

Clear air turbulence, often associated with the presence of jet streams and strong wind gradients, is a type of turbulence that can usually be mitigated by a change in altitude. This phenomenon typically occurs at higher altitudes where large variations in wind speed can exist, making it more favorable for pilots to climb or descend a few thousand feet to find smoother air.

By doing so, aircraft can avoid the unstable air associated with clear air turbulence, as this type of turbulence is not influenced significantly by ground features. In contrast, mechanical turbulence is closely linked to obstructions on the ground, while wind shear involves sudden changes in wind speed or direction, which may not necessarily be resolved with altitude changes. Mountain waves, caused by airflow interacting with mountainous terrain, are also more localized and subject to the specific geography, making them less predictable when changing altitude. Therefore, altering altitude is an effective strategy primarily for avoiding clear air turbulence.