Burbank to Greensboro Turbulence Forecast

BUR → GSO · 2,161 miles · ~4h 49m

What to Expect

The Burbank to Greensboro route, heading east, is a journey across diverse landscapes, each potentially contributing to bumps. Initially, you'll cross the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence from rising hot air can cause some chop. As you continue, the flight path takes you over the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence can occur as air flows over the peaks. Further east, over the Great Plains, clear-air turbulence (CAT) might be encountered. You'll then cross Tornado Alley, and the Ozark Plateau and the Mississippi Valley, all prone to convective turbulence arising from storm activity, particularly in warmer months. The Ohio Valley could bring frontal turbulence, followed by the Southern Appalachians, known for mechanical turbulence caused by wind interacting with the mountains. Pilots are trained to anticipate and manage these conditions every day, using weather reports to choose the smoothest possible path.

The Burbank to Greensboro 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?

For the smoothest experience on this route, aim to fly in the winter, when thermal activity over the deserts, convective storms, and mountain wave turbulence are generally at their lowest. Fall is also a good choice for a relatively calm flight. Summers tend to be bumpier due to increased thermal and convective activity across the deserts, plains, and valleys. Late winter, spring, early spring, and early summer see a mix of frontal systems and developing convective activity, which can lead to more turbulence, particularly around Tornado Alley and the Ozarks.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight can often mean a smoother ride as the air tends to be calmer before the day heats up, especially during warmer months. Any turbulence you might experience on this Burbank to Greensboro flight is usually like driving on a slightly bumpy road or feeling a gentle rocking motion. To enhance your comfort, consider choosing a seat over the wing, as this area tends to experience less motion; staying well-hydrated can also help you feel more relaxed. Remember, the pilots are skilled professionals trained to handle these conditions, and their priority is a safe, comfortable flight.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.