Bentonville to Kona Turbulence Forecast

XNA → KOA · 3,870 miles · ~8h 14m

What to Expect

The Bentonville to Kona route is a long, west-bound journey that crosses diverse geographical areas, each with its own turbulence characteristics. Departing over the Ozark Plateau, you might encounter some convective turbulence, those bouncy, localized bumps caused by rising warm air. As you head west, you will fly across Tornado Alley, where, particularly during storm season, severe convective turbulence is possible. Further along, over the Great Plains, clear-air turbulence, or CAT, can occur, caused by shifting air currents at high altitudes. Once you reach the Southern Rockies, expect possible mountain wave turbulence, created as wind flows over the peaks. The Mojave and Sonoran Deserts may present thermal turbulence, similar to that of the Ozarks. Approaching the Pacific Coast, CAT may appear again. Finally, over the open Pacific Ocean, you could experience oceanic clear-air turbulence or oceanic convection, similar to thunderstorms, but over the water. Remember, pilots are trained to navigate these conditions, and turbulence is a normal part of flying.

The Bentonville to Kona 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?

The fall months, particularly early fall, are generally the smoothest for this route. Winter, summer, early summer, and spring can also be calm, but it varies. Spring and early summer tend to be bumpier as convective activity increases over the Ozark Plateau, Tornado Alley, and the Great Plains. Late winter, early spring, late summer and summer can have more mountain wave turbulence over the Rockies, and all seasons can experience CAT. Summer over the deserts and the Pacific can also lead to thermal turbulence and convection.

Tips for This Flight

For the calmest flight, aim for a morning departure, when the air is often more stable. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road or a sudden dip. To enhance your comfort, choose a seat over the wing, where the motion is minimized, and stay well-hydrated, as this helps your body better handle any unexpected movement. Remember, turbulence is normal, and the crew is there to ensure your safety and comfort.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.