Avoid Flight in the Vicinity of Exhaust Plumes-Smoke Stacks and Cooling Towers

Below is an excerpt from the Aeronautical Information Manual which is the official guide to basic flight information and ATC procedures. Click the Link below to read more on this topic.

"7-6-16. Flight Hazards Exist Around Exhaust Plumes. Exhaust plumes are defined as visible or invisible emissions from power plants, industrial production facilities, or other industrial systems that release large amounts of vertically directed unstable gases (effluent). High temperature exhaust plumes can cause significant air disturbances such as turbulence and vertical shear.

Some studies do predict that the significant turbulent effects of an exhaust plume can extend to heights of over 1,000 feet above the height of the top of the stack or cooling tower. "

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