Burbank to Huntsville Turbulence Forecast

BUR → HSV · 1,793 miles · ~4h 5m

What to Expect

Flying east from Burbank to Huntsville, you'll cross a variety of landscapes that can sometimes lead to a bit of chop. Initially, you'll be over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence from rising hot air is common. As you proceed, you'll encounter the Southern Rockies, which can generate mountain wave turbulence when wind flows over the peaks. Next comes the Great Plains, where clear-air turbulence, or CAT, can occur even in seemingly clear skies. Depending on the time of year, you might also fly through Tornado Alley, where severe convective turbulence is associated with storm systems. Moving further east, you'll cross the Ozark Plateau and the Mississippi Valley, where convective turbulence is also possible. Finally, you'll fly over the Southeast Interior. Remember that pilots are skilled at navigating these well-understood weather patterns, using radar and reports from other aircraft to choose the smoothest possible path.

The Burbank to Huntsville 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 winter months, particularly late fall into early winter, generally offer the smoothest experience on this route. Fall is also often smoother, but spring and summer tend to be bumpier. This is because the deserts are heating up and thunderstorms are more frequent. Spring also sees increased storm activity in Tornado Alley. Early spring and summer also see increased risk of convective turbulence over the Ozark Plateau and the Mississippi Valley, while winter and early spring can see more mountain wave turbulence over the Southern Rockies due to stronger winds.

Tips for This Flight

Choosing a morning flight often means less turbulence, as the ground hasn't had as much time to heat up and create thermals. Most turbulence on this route will feel like driving on a road with potholes, a series of moderate bumps, but you might experience more dramatic jolts if storms are brewing. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, which is closest to the plane's center of gravity, and focus on taking slow, deep breaths. The crew is experienced in managing all types of weather, and turbulence is a normal part of flying. They are there to help you feel secure throughout the journey.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.