Burbank to Boston Turbulence Forecast

BUR → BOS · 2,595 miles · ~5h 41m

What to Expect

The Burbank to Boston flight, heading northeast for about 5 hours and 41 minutes, crosses a good portion of the continent, meaning it can offer a variety of turbulence experiences. Leaving Burbank, you'll first cross the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence from rising warm air is common. As you continue, the flight path takes you over the Central Rockies and Front Range, potentially encountering mountain wave turbulence caused by wind flowing over the mountains. Further along, over the Great Plains, you might experience clear-air turbulence (CAT), which can occur even in seemingly clear skies. Over the Great Lakes, be prepared for possible lake-effect turbulence. As you cross the Mississippi Valley, convective turbulence due to thunderstorms can sometimes occur. Finally, nearing Boston, the flight path crosses the Northern Appalachians, where mechanical turbulence can occur and the Atlantic Seaboard, where clear-air turbulence (CAT) can occur again. Remember, pilots are constantly monitoring conditions and adjusting altitude to find the smoothest possible ride.

Between Burbank and Boston, the flight path crosses the Central Rockies of Colorado and Utah. This area is one of the most turbulence-prone zones in the U.S., with mountain wave activity reported on more than half of winter days. Waves can propagate far downstream, meaning turbulence may begin well before or after the visible peaks.

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 Central Rockies produce frequent, sometimes severe, mountain waves that can extend 100+ miles downstream.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Lake-Effect Turbulence: The Great Lakes produce lake-effect convection and low-level wind shear from land-water temperature contrasts.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest experience on this route, early fall and winter are generally best. Summer also tends to be relatively smooth. The bumpier periods are generally summer, winter, early spring, late fall, early winter and spring, and early summer, when thermal activity over the deserts is stronger, mountain waves are more pronounced, and there's more convective activity, especially over the Mississippi Valley. Lake-effect turbulence is more common in late fall and winter, when cold air passes over the warmer lakes. Clear-air turbulence can occur year-round but is sometimes more pronounced in the winter months.

Tips for This Flight

If you are concerned about turbulence, aim for a morning flight, as the air is generally calmer then, especially over the desert regions. Any turbulence you might encounter on this route is usually like driving on a slightly bumpy road, or a boat gently rocking on the water. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, where movement is typically less noticeable, and remember to stay well-hydrated, as this can help with any anxiety. Focus on your breathing, knowing that the pilots are expertly navigating the skies and are well-prepared for any bumps along the way.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.