Burbank to Phoenix Turbulence Forecast

BUR → PHX · 368 miles · ~1h 14m

What to Expect

That Burbank to Phoenix route is a pretty common one, but it does have its quirks when it comes to air conditions. Because you're flying east, you'll be crossing both the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. These deserts are known for something called thermal turbulence, especially during the day. This happens because the sun heats the ground unevenly, creating rising pockets of warm air and sinking pockets of cool air. Think of it like driving over a road with small speed bumps. Pilots are very familiar with this type of turbulence, and they're trained to handle it safely and smoothly. They constantly monitor weather conditions and adjust altitude or route as needed to find the smoothest ride possible. It's a very normal part of flying, especially over desert regions.

The Burbank to Phoenix route crosses the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where intense daytime surface heating creates strong thermal updrafts and mechanical turbulence at lower altitudes. While cruise-level turbulence is generally lighter than over mountain terrain, summer monsoon thunderstorms over the desert Southwest can build rapidly and produce sharp convective jolts.

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.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

If you're looking for the calmest flight, aim for winter or fall. The desert air is much cooler during these months, which minimizes those thermal updrafts and downdrafts. Summer is usually the bumpiest time to fly this route because the desert heat is at its peak. All that hot air rising creates stronger and more frequent pockets of thermal turbulence. Spring can be a bit of a mixed bag, depending on how quickly the desert warms up.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, book your flight for early morning, when the desert hasn't had as much time to heat up, which often leads to less turbulence. The bumps you might experience on this route from thermal turbulence will probably feel like driving on a slightly bumpy road or maybe a few gentle dips. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing; it's the most stable part of the plane. Remember to stay hydrated, and focus on slow, deep breaths to help you relax, knowing that the crew is well-prepared for any air conditions along the way.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.