Dallas Love Field to Bentonville Turbulence Forecast

DAL → XNA · 278 miles · ~1h 3m

What to Expect

Your upcoming flight from Dallas Love Field (DAL) to Bentonville (XNA) is a quick hop northeast, about an hour and three minutes to cover the 278 miles. Now, because of the geography, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Leaving Dallas, you'll be crossing Tornado Alley, an area known for what's called Severe Convective Turbulence. This type of turbulence is caused by strong updrafts and downdrafts in thunderstorms, but pilots are very skilled at navigating around these. Later in the flight, you'll cross the Ozark Plateau, which can generate Convective Turbulence. This is similar, but generally less intense, as it's caused by the sun heating the ground and creating rising air. Remember, airlines fly this route all the time; these weather patterns are well understood, and pilots are trained to handle them safely and smoothly.

Between Dallas Love Field and Bentonville, the flight path crosses Tornado Alley, the region stretching from Texas through Oklahoma and Kansas where severe convective storms are most frequent in the U.S. Supercell thunderstorms in this region produce extreme updrafts and downdrafts, and flights are routinely deviated around these cells, especially in spring and early summer.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• 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 ride on this Dallas to Bentonville route, aim for fall or winter. During these seasons, the atmosphere tends to be more stable, reducing the likelihood of convective turbulence. Spring and early summer tend to be bumpier. This is because these are the seasons when severe thunderstorms are most frequent in Tornado Alley, and the Ozark Plateau is more prone to daytime heating that generates more convective activity. Keep in mind that weather is always variable, but these are the general trends.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking your flight for early morning is often your best bet, as the air tends to be calmer before the day heats up. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will probably feel like driving on a bumpy road for a few minutes, or perhaps a sudden dip similar to going over a small hill. For extra comfort, consider choosing a seat over the wing, which is generally the most stable part of the plane, and remember to stay hydrated. Taking slow, deep breaths can help you stay relaxed. You'll be in Bentonville before you know it.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.