Burbank to Wichita Turbulence Forecast

BUR → ICT · 1,192 miles · ~2h 53m

What to Expect

Okay, let's look at what the Burbank to Wichita flight might feel like. This route heads east, and it's about 1192 miles, so you'll be in the air for close to 3 hours. Early on, you'll be flying over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, and warmer ground temperatures can cause what's called thermal turbulence, which feels like moderate chop. Later, you'll cross the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence can happen when wind flows over the peaks; this is also usually just some moderate bouncing. As you get closer to Wichita, you'll be over the Great Plains, an area prone to clear-air turbulence (CAT), which can come on suddenly, but pilots are always monitoring for it. Finally, this route does cross Tornado Alley, where severe convective turbulence can occur, especially during storm season. Remember, pilots are highly trained to navigate all these conditions; they constantly monitor weather and adjust the flight path to find the smoothest air possible.

The Burbank to Wichita 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 and fall months are generally the smoothest time to fly this route. Summer can bring thermal turbulence over the deserts, and severe convective turbulence is common in Tornado Alley. Late winter, spring, early summer, and early spring are also bumpier, as these are peak seasons for storm activity in the Plains. Keep in mind that mountain wave turbulence over the Rockies can occur year-round, though it's most frequent when the jet stream is strongest, usually during the winter months. So, for a less bumpy experience, consider scheduling your flight in winter or fall.

Tips for This Flight

If you are anxious, consider booking your flight for the early morning, as daytime heating creates more thermal turbulence. Any turbulence you experience on this route will most likely feel like driving on a road with lots of small potholes or some bigger bumps. To help stay calm, try focusing on your breathing; slow, deep breaths can make a big difference. Also, staying hydrated can help you feel more comfortable. And remember, the flight crew is there to support you, so don't hesitate to let them know how you're feeling; they are there to help.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.