Kona to Salt Lake City Turbulence Forecast

KOA → SLC · 2,963 miles · ~6h 26m

What to Expect

Your Kona to Salt Lake City flight, heading northeast for about 6 and a half hours, crosses some varied geographic features that can contribute to turbulence. Initially, you'll be over the open Pacific Ocean, where you might encounter oceanic clear-air turbulence or bumps from oceanic convection, which are often isolated and short-lived. As you approach the Pacific Coast, you could experience clear-air turbulence; this type can occur even in seemingly clear skies. Further inland, as you fly over the Sierra Nevada and then the Central Rockies, mountain wave turbulence becomes a possibility; this is caused by air flowing over the mountains. Pilots are very familiar with these patterns and use weather forecasts to plan routes that minimize bumps.

Flights between Kona and Salt Lake City cross the Sierra Nevada, a steep mountain barrier in eastern California. The Sierra generates some of the most intense rotor and wave turbulence in the world — the famous "Sierra Wave" can reach the stratosphere. East-side downdrafts are especially sharp, and flights into or out of Reno or the Central Valley often feel the effects.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Oceanic Clear-Air Turbulence: Transoceanic jet stream crossings produce extended stretches of clear-air turbulence over the open Pacific.
• Oceanic Convection: Isolated thunderstorms over warm Pacific waters can develop away from radar coverage, catching flights off guard.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Sierra Nevada produces the well-known Sierra Wave, one of the strongest mountain wave systems in North America.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible ride on this route, aim for spring, early summer, summer, or early fall. The atmosphere tends to be more stable then, which reduces the chance of encountering significant turbulence over the mountains and ocean. Winter, late summer, early spring, and spring can be a bit bumpier due to stronger jet streams creating more clear-air turbulence. Also, these seasons are more prone to unsettled weather patterns that can amplify mountain wave effects as you cross the Sierra Nevada and Central Rockies.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight can often lead to a smoother experience, as the atmosphere tends to be more stable earlier in the day. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving on a road with a few potholes, or perhaps some moderate jostling, not unlike being on a boat. To enhance your comfort, choose a seat over the wing; this area experiences less motion than the front or rear of the plane. Remember to stay hydrated, breathe deeply, and know that the crew is well-prepared to handle any conditions that arise.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.