air pocket

American  

noun

1. (not in technical use) a nearly vertical air current that can cause an aircraft to experience a sudden change in altitude, usually a decrease.

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air pocket British  

noun

1. a localized region of low air density or a descending air current, causing an aircraft to suffer an abrupt decrease in height

2. any pocket of air that prevents the flow of a liquid or gas, as in a pipe

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Etymology

Origin of air pocket

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

A 10-year-old boy was rescued after being trapped in an air pocket in the upturned hull, local media say.

From BBC • Jul. 19, 2025

Somehow, before his arms became completely sealed up in snow, he punched a small air pocket in front of his face.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 13, 2024

The cupped hands provide a tiny air pocket.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 12, 2024

“Whether it is stabler than we thought, or we just haven’t hit the air pocket yet, I don’t know,” he said.

From New York Times • Mar. 16, 2023

I tried a bunch of times, but there was always an air pocket I couldn't get out.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir