What are the conditions for describing turbulence as "Intermittent"?

Describing turbulence as "intermittent" specifically refers to the frequency with which the turbulence is experienced. In this context, for turbulence to be labeled as intermittent, it must occur within a specific range of time: that is, between 1/3 to 2/3 of the time. This means that during the flight, turbulence is present, but not consistently or constantly; it appears periodically rather than being a relentless factor throughout the entire duration of the flight.

The classification of turbulence as intermittent helps pilots and crew to manage expectations regarding flight conditions. Understanding that the turbulent moments are not constant allows for strategic adjustments in flight operations. This classification is crucial for safety and comfort, as it influences decisions on altitude adjustments or passenger communications.

The other choices do not align with the accepted definition of intermittent turbulence. For example, describing turbulence as "less than 1/3 of the time" would suggest it’s infrequent, while "more than 2/3 of the time" or "all of the time" would indicate a more constant and persistent situation, rather than an intermittent occurrence. Such distinctions are key in aviation to ensure clarity in communication and operational procedures.