Burbank to Newark Turbulence Forecast

BUR → EWR · 2,439 miles · ~5h 23m

What to Expect

Your upcoming flight from Burbank to Newark crosses a wide variety of geographic features, each capable of creating turbulence. You'll begin by flying over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where rising warm air, called thermal turbulence, can create some initial bumps. Next, you'll cross the Central Rockies, so be prepared for possible mountain wave turbulence caused by wind flowing over the peaks. As you pass over the Great Plains, keep in mind that this area is prone to clear-air turbulence (CAT), which occurs in the absence of clouds. You might also experience some severe convective turbulence over Tornado Alley and convective turbulence over the Mississippi Valley, both due to storm activity. Finally, your flight passes over the Ohio Valley and the Northern Appalachians. Be aware that frontal turbulence (where air masses collide) and mechanical turbulence (from wind interacting with the mountains) are possible. Pilots are constantly monitoring and managing these conditions, using onboard radar and reports from other aircraft to navigate the smoothest possible path.

Between Burbank and Newark, 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.
• 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, especially early fall, tends to be the smoothest time to fly this route. Winter can be surprisingly calm as well. Summer and early spring bring increased thermal activity over the deserts, and spring sees heightened storm activity in Tornado Alley. Early summer brings storms through the Mississippi Valley. These factors can contribute to a higher likelihood of turbulence, so if smoothness is your priority, aim for fall or winter travel.

Tips for This Flight

Consider booking a morning flight, 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 bumpy, unpaved road, or perhaps a small dip on a roller coaster. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, as this area experiences less motion during turbulence. Remember to stay hydrated and practice deep, steady breathing; this can help you feel more relaxed and in control. With these simple strategies, you can feel confident and comfortable throughout your journey.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.