Houston Intercontinental to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

IAH → BUR · 1,375 miles · ~3h 15m

What to Expect

Your flight from Houston Intercontinental (IAH) to Burbank (BUR) is a pretty standard west-bound route, about 3 hours and 15 minutes. Since you'll be flying west, you'll encounter a few different types of turbulence related to the geography below. Right after takeoff, over the Gulf Coast, you might experience some convective turbulence, which is caused by warm, moist air rising. Later in the flight, as you cross the Southern Rockies, you could feel some mountain wave turbulence, caused by wind flowing over the mountains. Finally, as you approach Burbank over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, thermal turbulence is possible, again due to rising warm air. Pilots are always monitoring weather conditions and adjusting altitude or course slightly to find the smoothest possible air. They're very familiar with these common weather patterns.

The Houston Intercontinental to Burbank 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

• Convective Turbulence: Warm Gulf moisture drives rapid thunderstorm development along the coast, creating intense updrafts and downdrafts.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The winter months and early spring tend to offer the smoothest rides on this route. During these times, the air is generally more stable, reducing the chance of convective or thermal turbulence. Summer, late winter, and spring can be bumpier due to increased heat and moisture around the Gulf Coast, which fuels convective turbulence. Additionally, the mountain wave turbulence over the Rockies can be more pronounced during these seasons due to stronger winds aloft.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, book a morning flight; the air tends to be calmer earlier in the day, before the ground heats up too much. Any turbulence you encounter will likely feel like driving on a slightly bumpy road, and is perfectly normal. Staying hydrated can help you feel more relaxed, and choosing a seat over the wing can minimize the sensation of movement. Remember, the pilots are highly trained professionals who prioritize your safety and comfort.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.