Which type of thunderstorm is generally considered the most hazardous for aircraft?

The most hazardous type of thunderstorm for aircraft is the supercell thunderstorm. Supercells are characterized by a rotating updraft, known as a mesocyclone, which can produce severe weather phenomena such as tornadoes, large hail, and intense wind shear. This rotation and the strength of the updraft can lead to severe turbulence, making flying extremely dangerous.

In comparison, while squall line thunderstorms, multicell thunderstorms, and single cell thunderstorms can also present hazards, they generally do not reach the same levels of intensity or sustained severe weather potential as supercells. Squall lines may bring strong winds and heavy rain, but they are typically less organized than supercells and can be anticipated to pass quicker.

Understanding these differences is crucial for pilots as they navigate potentially hazardous weather conditions, ensuring they can take appropriate precautions to maintain safety in flight.