Las Vegas to New Orleans Turbulence Forecast

LAS → MSY · 1,497 miles · ~3h 30m

What to Expect

The Las Vegas to New Orleans flight is a roughly east-bound journey across a diverse range of landscapes. Early in the flight, you'll be crossing the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where rising heat can cause thermal turbulence; these are typically brief bumps. Further along, as you fly over the Southern Rockies, mountain wave turbulence could create some moderate chop, think of it like boat wakes in the sky. Then, depending on the time of year, your flight path might intersect Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley, areas known for severe convective turbulence related to thunderstorms. Finally, near your destination, the Gulf Coast can also generate convective turbulence. All of these types of turbulence are well understood by pilots, who constantly monitor weather conditions and adjust flight paths to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

The Las Vegas to New Orleans 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

• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• 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 route, aim for a winter or fall flight. The air tends to be more stable during these seasons, reducing the likelihood of thermal and convective turbulence. Summer and late winter through early summer tend to be the bumpiest times. The heat of summer over the deserts increases thermal turbulence, while spring and early summer bring increased thunderstorm activity in Tornado Alley and along the Gulf Coast, leading to more convective turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking a morning flight might be your best bet, as the air is often calmer before the day heats up and storms develop. Any bumps you do experience on this route will probably feel like driving on a slightly bumpy road or a boat gently rocking on the water. To help stay calm, choose a seat over the wing; this area tends to experience less motion. Staying hydrated and focusing on slow, deep breaths can also help you feel more relaxed and in control, knowing that your pilots are always working to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Las Vegas or to New Orleans.

More from Las Vegas

More to New Orleans

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.