Maui to Memphis Turbulence Forecast

OGG → MEM · 4,098 miles · ~8h 42m

What to Expect

That Maui to Memphis route, heading northeast over 4000 miles, definitely has its moments, turbulence-wise. Right after takeoff, you'll be over the open Pacific, where oceanic clear-air turbulence and convection can cause some initial bumps. As you approach the Pacific Coast, expect possible clear-air turbulence. Then, over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, thermal turbulence from the hot ground rising up could jiggle things a bit. Crossing the Southern Rockies, mountain wave turbulence is common. The Great Plains might bring more clear-air turbulence. Tornado Alley can have severe convective turbulence. Further along, the Ozark Plateau, the Mississippi Valley, and the Southeast Interior are all areas where convective turbulence can crop up. Pilots are very familiar with these patterns and constantly monitor conditions to ensure a safe, if not always perfectly smooth, flight.

The Maui to Memphis 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

• 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.
• 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.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible ride, aim for spring, early summer, or summer. Early fall, winter, fall, and late fall are also good times to fly this route. Late summer, early spring, summer, late winter, spring, early summer are typically the bumpiest months. The bumpier seasons are due to increased convective activity, especially over Tornado Alley, the Ozarks, Mississippi Valley, and Southeast Interior, as well as more pronounced clear-air turbulence. The temperature differences between land and air masses are more intense during these periods, leading to the development of more turbulent conditions.

Tips for This Flight

If you can, consider booking a morning flight, as turbulence tends to be calmer earlier in the day. Any bumps you experience on this route are likely to feel like driving over a slightly bumpy road or a small dip. To help stay relaxed, choose a seat over the wing, where motion is minimized, and stay well-hydrated throughout the flight. Remember, the pilots are highly skilled and trained to handle all kinds of weather; they are always working to keep you safe and comfortable.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Maui or to Memphis.

More from Maui

More to Memphis

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.