Maui to Salt Lake City Turbulence Forecast

OGG → SLC · 2,933 miles · ~6h 22m

What to Expect

Flying from Maui (OGG) to Salt Lake City (SLC) means crossing a variety of geographic features that can contribute to turbulence. The initial stretch involves crossing the open Pacific, where you might encounter Oceanic Clear-Air Turbulence or bumps from Oceanic Convection. As you approach the Pacific Coast, expect the possibility of Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT). Inland, over the Sierra Nevada and Central Rockies, Mountain Wave Turbulence is common. These mountain waves are created as wind flows over the peaks. It's helpful to remember that pilots are trained to anticipate and navigate these conditions. They use weather forecasts and real-time reports from other aircraft to choose the smoothest possible altitude and route, and turbulence is a normal part of flying, not an indication of danger.

Flights between Maui 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 flight, aim for a trip in early fall, summer, or early summer. Spring is also known to be calm. Winter, late summer, early spring, and spring tend to be the bumpiest times on this route. This is because stronger jet streams during the winter months can create more clear-air turbulence over the ocean and Pacific Coast. The unstable air patterns of spring, late summer, and early spring can amplify mountain wave turbulence over the Sierra Nevada and Central Rockies.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking a morning flight can often lead to a smoother experience. The air is often calmer earlier in the day. If you do experience bumps, they'll likely feel like driving on a road with potholes or a sudden dip. To help stay comfortable, consider choosing a seat over the wing; this area experiences less motion. Remember to stay hydrated and focus on slow, deep breaths. Pilots are skilled at managing turbulence, and modern aircraft are built to withstand even the roughest conditions. You're in good hands.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.