Fort Myers to Spokane Turbulence Forecast

RSW → GEG · 2,418 miles · ~5h 20m

What to Expect

The Fort Myers to Spokane flight is a long one, crossing a wide variety of landscapes and weather patterns, which means you could experience a few different types of turbulence along the way. Shortly after takeoff, you'll be flying over the Gulf Coast and then the Southeast Interior, areas prone to convective turbulence. This type of bumpiness is caused by warm, rising air creating unstable conditions, especially common in the warmer months. Further along the route, you'll cross the Mississippi Valley and Ozark Plateau, also subject to convective turbulence. Keep in mind that you'll be flying over Tornado Alley, where severe convective turbulence can occur, especially during storm season. As you head further northwest over the Great Plains, you might encounter clear-air turbulence, or CAT, which is caused by shifting air currents high in the atmosphere. Finally, approaching Spokane over the Northern Rockies, there's a chance of mountain wave turbulence, caused by air flowing over the mountains. Pilots are very familiar with all these types of weather, and they constantly monitor conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

The Fort Myers to Spokane route crosses the Northern Rockies, a rugged expanse of high peaks in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. Mountain wave turbulence is frequent here, especially when Pacific storm systems push strong winds over the Continental Divide. Pilots often report moderate chop between 30,000 and 40,000 feet over this region.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Convective Turbulence: Warm Gulf moisture drives rapid thunderstorm development along the coast, creating intense updrafts and downdrafts.
• 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 Northern Rockies generate powerful lee waves when Pacific fronts drive westerly flow across the high terrain.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim to travel this route in the fall. Early spring, late fall, and winter are also generally calmer times. During these seasons, convective turbulence is less frequent because the air is cooler and more stable. Summer tends to be the bumpiest due to increased convective activity across the Gulf Coast, the Southeast Interior, the Mississippi Valley, and the Ozark Plateau. Spring and early summer can also be rough, particularly over Tornado Alley, where severe convective turbulence is more likely. Mountain wave turbulence over the Northern Rockies can occur in any season, but it's often more pronounced in the winter when strong winds interact with the mountains.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, try to book a morning flight, as convective turbulence tends to build throughout the day. Any turbulence you experience on this route will most likely feel like driving over a road with potholes or speed bumps, a bit jolting but generally not alarming. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, as this area tends to experience less motion. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and practice deep, slow breathing to help you relax. Remember that turbulence is a normal part of flying, and the pilots are well-trained to handle it safely.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Fort Myers or to Spokane.

More from Fort Myers

More to Spokane

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.