Los Angeles to Savannah Turbulence Forecast

LAX → SAV · 2,147 miles · ~4h 48m

What to Expect

The Los Angeles to Savannah route, heading east for about four hours and forty-eight minutes, crosses a variety of terrains that can influence turbulence. Initially, you'll fly over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence from rising warm air can cause some chop. As you continue, the flight path crosses the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence is possible as wind interacts with the peaks. Later, you'll enter areas like Tornado Alley, the Ozark Plateau, the Mississippi Valley, and the Southeast Interior, all prone to convective turbulence, especially if there are thunderstorms. It sounds like a lot, but pilots are highly trained to monitor weather conditions and navigate these areas; they are constantly adjusting altitude and course to find the smoothest possible ride.

The Los Angeles to Savannah 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 calmest flight, plan your trip during the winter or late fall. The air is generally more stable then, reducing thermal and convective activity. Summer, late winter, spring, and early summer tend to be bumpier. Warmer temperatures increase thermal turbulence over the deserts, and spring brings increased storm activity across Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley, leading to more convective turbulence, as well as increased chances of mountain wave turbulence over the Rockies.

Tips for This Flight

Opt for a morning flight if possible; the atmosphere is often more stable earlier in the day before the ground heats up. Any turbulence you encounter will likely feel like driving over a road with minor potholes or a slightly bumpy gravel road. Choose a seat over the wing; this section of the plane experiences less motion. Remember to stay hydrated and practice slow, deep breathing. Know that the flight crew is highly skilled at navigating these conditions, and you'll be touching down in Savannah before you know it.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.