What is the safest side to pass on when encountering a thunderstorm?

Passing on the front side of a thunderstorm is considered the safest approach due to several factors associated with thunderstorm behavior. Thunderstorms can produce severe turbulence, damaging winds, and hail, which are often most intense in the rear and core areas of the storm. By avoiding these areas and flying on the front side, you maintain a safer distance from the storm's most hazardous phenomena.

On the front side of the storm, you are typically dealing with less turbulence than behind the storm, where there can be severe downdrafts and erratic wind patterns. Additionally, passing on the front side allows for better visibility of the thunderstorm, enabling a pilot to make informed decisions based on the storm's structure and movement. This choice minimizes the risk of encountering sudden changes in wind or severe weather conditions that can occur in the vicinity of the storm.

It’s important to recognize that passing on the back side, left side, or any other approach may expose aircraft to the more violent effects of the storm, including updrafts and downdrafts that can severely affect aircraft performance and safety.