An 18-year-old student from Bellevue, Washington, has built an artificial intelligence model designed to predict dangerous clear-air turbulence, earning a $100,000 (£75,000) scholarship from the Davidson Institute. Aditya Sengupta developed the machine-learning system, named ForeCAT, after experiencing severe and unexpected turbulence during commercial flights. The Davidson Institute, an American educational foundation supporting high-achieving youth, named Sengupta a 2026 Davidson Fellow Laureate for his independent research combining atmospheric physics with computing to solve aviation hazards. Clear-air turbulence occurs without visual indicators such as cloud formations or severe storms. This lack of visibility leaves commercial pilots with minimal warning before aircraft enter chaotic atmospheric air pockets, creating risks of passenger injuries and operational disruptions that cost the airline industry an estimated $500 million annually, according to findings presented at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
