Albuquerque to Reno Turbulence Forecast

ABQ → RNO · 785 miles · ~2h 4m

What to Expect

Your flight from Albuquerque to Reno crosses some interesting terrain, making for a flight that can sometimes be a bit bumpy. Immediately after takeoff, you'll be crossing the Southern Rockies, so keep an eye out for mountain wave turbulence; this happens when wind flows over the mountains, creating waves of air that can cause some chop. As you continue northwest, you'll be over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence is common, especially during the day. This is caused by warm air rising from the hot desert floor. Finally, as you approach Reno, you'll cross the Sierra Nevada, another mountain range where mountain wave turbulence can occur. Pilots are very familiar with these patterns, and they use weather forecasts and radar to navigate around them whenever possible.

The Albuquerque to Reno route passes over the Southern Rockies in New Mexico and southern Colorado. While somewhat lower than the peaks to the north, these mountains still produce notable mountain wave turbulence, particularly when strong southwesterly winds aloft align perpendicular to the ridgeline.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The smoothest flights on this route are usually found in the early fall. During this time, the desert heat has subsided, reducing thermal turbulence, and the mountain wave activity is generally calmer than in other seasons. Late winter, spring, summer, and winter tend to be the bumpiest seasons. Spring and summer bring increased thermal activity over the deserts, and late winter and winter can see stronger winds over the Rockies and Sierra Nevada, leading to more mountain wave turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, consider booking a morning flight; the air is often calmer before the day heats up, which reduces thermal turbulence over the desert. Any turbulence you experience on this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road for a few minutes at a time; it's rarely anything more dramatic than that. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, where you'll feel less motion, and remember to stay hydrated; dehydration can worsen anxiety. Focus on your breathing and remind yourself that turbulence is a normal, safe part of flying.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.