Detroit to Phoenix Turbulence Forecast

DTW → PHX · 1,667 miles · ~3h 50m

What to Expect

The Detroit to Phoenix flight, heading west across the United States, is interesting because it crosses so many types of terrain and, therefore, so many potential sources of turbulence. Leaving Detroit, you might encounter some chop over the Great Lakes, called Lake-Effect Turbulence. As you head further west, across the Ohio and Mississippi Valleys, watch for Frontal and Convective Turbulence, which are often associated with weather fronts or storms. Flying over Tornado Alley and the Great Plains, there's potential for Severe Convective Turbulence during storm season, as well as Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT), which can occur even in seemingly clear skies. Finally, as you approach Phoenix, the Southern Rockies can cause Mountain Wave Turbulence, and the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts can generate Thermal Turbulence, caused by rising warm air. Pilots are highly skilled at reading weather patterns and using onboard radar to avoid areas of significant turbulence, making adjustments to altitude and route as needed.

The Detroit to Phoenix 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

• Lake-Effect Turbulence: The Great Lakes produce lake-effect convection and low-level wind shear from land-water temperature contrasts.
• Frontal Turbulence: The Ohio Valley is a preferred storm track where frontal boundaries and embedded convection create turbulence year-round.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The smoothest flights on the Detroit to Phoenix route are generally in the summer, early fall, and fall, and even winter, as the weather patterns tend to be more stable. Late fall, early winter, winter, spring, early summer, early spring, late winter, and summer can be a bit bumpier. This is because these seasons often bring more significant weather systems across the Ohio and Mississippi Valleys, increasing the likelihood of frontal and convective turbulence. Plus, winter storms can generate lake-effect turbulence as you depart Detroit.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, consider booking a morning flight, as the air tends to be calmer earlier in the day, especially over the desert areas. Any turbulence you experience on this route will likely feel like driving on a road with potholes or the sensation of a brief elevator dip. To help stay relaxed, choose a seat over the wing, where the ride is typically a little smoother, and practice deep, slow breathing exercises throughout the flight. Remember, the pilots are always monitoring conditions and prioritizing your safety.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Detroit or to Phoenix.

More from Detroit

More to Phoenix

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.