Bentonville to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

XNA → BUR · 1,361 miles · ~3h 13m

What to Expect

Your flight from Bentonville to Burbank will take you across a diverse landscape, which means experiencing a range of potential turbulence. Initially, you'll be crossing the Ozark Plateau, where convective turbulence from rising warm air can cause some bumps, especially during warmer months. Then, you'll enter Tornado Alley, which is known for severe convective turbulence, particularly in the spring. As you continue west, you'll fly over the Great Plains, where clear-air turbulence (CAT) can occur, often unexpectedly, due to wind shear at higher altitudes. Approaching the Southern Rockies, you might encounter mountain wave turbulence, caused by air flowing over the mountains. Finally, as you descend into Burbank, you'll cross the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence from the hot desert air rising can create some choppiness. Keep in mind that pilots are well-versed in navigating these conditions, using weather reports and radar to avoid the worst of it.

The Bentonville to Burbank 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

• Convective Turbulence: The Ozark Plateau frequently lies at the convergence of contrasting air masses, fueling thunderstorms and convective turbulence.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• 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?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim to travel during the fall. Winter is also a decent choice, and summer can be surprisingly calm. Spring, early summer, early spring, late winter, and summer are generally the bumpiest times for this route, as these seasons bring increased convective activity in the Ozarks and Tornado Alley, as well as stronger temperature gradients over the deserts. Mountain wave turbulence near the Rockies is also more common during the winter months when strong winds aloft interact with the mountains.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight will likely offer a smoother ride, as thermal activity and convective turbulence tend to increase as the day heats up. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving on a bumpy road, with some moderate shaking or sudden jolts; severe turbulence is rare and pilots always prioritize safety. To feel more comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, which is closest to the plane's center of gravity, and practice deep, slow breathing to stay relaxed; remember, the pilots are trained to handle these conditions, and the flight is designed to withstand far more than you'll experience.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.