Burbank to Atlanta Turbulence Forecast

BUR → ATL · 1,937 miles · ~4h 22m

What to Expect

Your flight from Burbank (BUR) to Atlanta (ATL) crosses a diverse range of landscapes, each with its own potential for turbulence. Immediately after takeoff, you'll encounter the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence caused by rising warm air is common. Next, you'll fly over the Southern Rockies, which can generate mountain wave turbulence as air flows over the peaks. As you cross the Great Plains, be aware that you may experience clear-air turbulence (CAT), which is often unexpected but well-documented. Tornado Alley and the Ozark Plateau are next. This area can see severe convective turbulence depending on weather patterns. Then, it's on to the Southeast Interior and the Southern Appalachians where turbulence is generally due to weather patterns or the terrain itself, which pilots are trained to handle. While this sounds like a lot, pilots are constantly monitoring conditions and adjusting course and altitude for a smooth flight.

The Burbank to Atlanta 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

• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Severe Convective Turbulence: Tornado Alley supercells produce some of the most intense convective turbulence in North American aviation.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The fall and winter months generally offer the smoothest flights on this route. The atmosphere tends to be more stable, which reduces thermal and convective turbulence. The summer months, early spring, and early summer, however, tend to be bumpier. This is because warmer temperatures lead to increased thermal activity over the deserts and plains. Severe convective turbulence associated with thunderstorms is also more frequent during the warmer months in Tornado Alley and the Southeast. Mechanical turbulence from the Southern Appalachians remains consistent year-round, but is usually less intense than weather-related turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

Opting for an early morning flight will typically give you the smoothest ride because the atmosphere hasn't had as much time to heat up and generate thermal turbulence. Any bumps you do encounter on this flight will likely feel like driving on a road with some potholes or speed bumps; it's more of an annoyance than anything alarming. Choosing a seat over the wing provides the most stable experience. Staying hydrated and focusing on slow, deep breaths throughout the flight can also help you relax and feel more in control. Remember, the pilots and crew are highly skilled and experienced, and your safety is their top priority.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.