Burbank to Pittsburgh Turbulence Forecast

BUR → PIT · 2,122 miles · ~4h 45m

What to Expect

Your flight from Burbank to Pittsburgh crosses a wide variety of terrains and weather patterns, making it potentially prone to turbulence. Right out of Burbank, you'll experience the thermal turbulence common over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts as warm air rises. Further along, as you cross the Central Rockies and the Front Range, mountain wave turbulence can occur as air flows over the mountains. Over the Great Plains, you might encounter clear-air turbulence (CAT), caused by shifting air currents at high altitudes. Depending on the time of year, Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley can bring severe convective turbulence from developing storms, while the Ohio Valley may present frontal turbulence associated with weather fronts. Pilots are highly trained to anticipate and navigate these conditions, adjusting altitude or course to ensure a safe and reasonably comfortable flight.

Between Burbank and Pittsburgh, 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?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim to travel in the fall, especially early fall. Summer, while generally warm, can bring convective turbulence, especially over Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley. Winter, early spring, spring and early summer tend to be bumpier due to increased frontal activity and mountain wave potential over the Rockies. These seasonal shifts directly impact the types and intensity of turbulence you might experience, so consider them when planning your trip.

Tips for This Flight

Opt for an early morning flight to minimize the chances of encountering afternoon convective turbulence. Turbulence on this route often feels like driving over a bumpy road or a sudden jolt, but it is very normal. Choose a seat over the wing, as this area experiences less motion, stay well-hydrated to combat any anxiety, and practice deep, slow breathing, remembering that the pilots are constantly monitoring conditions and prioritizing your safety.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.