Burbank to Anchorage Turbulence Forecast

BUR → ANC · 2,329 miles · ~5h 9m

What to Expect

Your Burbank to Anchorage flight is interesting from a turbulence perspective because it crosses several major geographic features known to generate bumps. Right after takeoff, you'll be flying over the Sierra Nevada mountains, which can cause what's called Mountain Wave Turbulence. This happens when strong winds flow over the mountains, creating waves in the air like ripples in a stream; the plane can experience some moderate chop as it crosses these waves. Later, you'll encounter a similar phenomenon as you cross the Cascades. Finally, as you approach the Alaskan coast, you might experience Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT), which, as the name suggests, occurs in clear skies and is caused by differing air currents meeting. It's worth remembering that pilots are trained to anticipate and handle these conditions routinely, and they use weather reports and onboard instruments to navigate them safely. CAT is often very localized, so any bumps will be short-lived.

Flights between Burbank and Anchorage cross the Sierra Nevada, a steep mountain barrier in eastern California. The Sierra generates some of the most intense rotor and wave turbulence in the world — the famous "Sierra Wave" can reach the stratosphere. East-side downdrafts are especially sharp, and flights into or out of Reno or the Central Valley often feel the effects.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Sierra Nevada produces the well-known Sierra Wave, one of the strongest mountain wave systems in North America.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): Pacific jet streaks arriving onshore drive upper-level clear-air turbulence along the West Coast.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight on this route, aim for the summer or early fall months. During this period, the atmospheric conditions tend to be more stable, reducing the likelihood of mountain wave turbulence and clear-air turbulence. The winter, spring, and early spring months, on the other hand, tend to be more turbulent. Stronger winds interacting with the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountains are more frequent during these seasons, leading to an increased chance of mountain wave activity. Similarly, atmospheric instability in the Pacific can make clear-air turbulence more common.

Tips for This Flight

If you're anxious, booking a morning flight might offer a slightly smoother experience as the atmosphere tends to be more stable earlier in the day. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving on a road with some potholes or bumps; it's usually not severe. To help stay calm, choose a seat over the wing, as this is generally the most stable part of the plane, and focus on your breathing. Remember, the flight crew is there to ensure your safety and comfort, so don't hesitate to ask them any questions you may have. You've got this.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Burbank or to Anchorage.

More from Burbank

More to Anchorage

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.