Minneapolis to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

MSP → BUR · 1,520 miles · ~3h 32m

What to Expect

Flying from Minneapolis to Burbank means traversing diverse landscapes, each with its own potential for air disturbances. Initially, expect possible clear-air turbulence, or CAT, over the Upper Midwest and Great Plains. CAT is often invisible, caused by differing air currents colliding at high altitudes, but pilots are adept at managing it. As you approach the Front Range and the Central Rockies, mountain wave turbulence becomes a factor, influenced by wind patterns interacting with the mountains. This is another common weather phenomenon pilots are trained to handle. Finally, closer to Burbank, you might encounter thermal turbulence over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, caused by rising warm air; again, pilots are very familiar with this. Knowing that each bump has a well-understood cause can make it feel less alarming.

Flights between Minneapolis and Burbank pass along the Front Range, where the abrupt rise of the Colorado Rockies generates some of the strongest mountain wave turbulence in the continental U.S. Downdrafts east of the ridgeline can be intense, and rotor turbulence near the surface sometimes extends to cruising altitude during high-wind events.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The Upper Midwest sits beneath frequent polar jet stream intrusions, producing clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: Strong westerly winds over the Front Range create oscillating waves that can produce sustained moderate turbulence at jet cruise levels.
• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim for late summer, early fall, or even fall or winter. The atmosphere tends to be more stable during these periods, reducing the likelihood of thermal and mountain wave turbulence. Winter, however, can see increased CAT activity. Winter, early spring, and summer can be bumpier due to stronger temperature contrasts that trigger more thermal activity over the deserts and more pronounced mountain wave effects as winds interact with the Rockies. The change in seasons can impact the amount of bumpiness you encounter, so prepare for more turbulence during these times.

Tips for This Flight

Booking a morning flight can often mean a smoother ride since the air hasn't had as much time to heat up and create thermal turbulence over the desert. Any turbulence you might experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving on a slightly bumpy road; it's usually more of a nuisance than a cause for concern. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, as it tends to experience less motion, and remember to stay hydrated; dehydration can worsen anxiety. Deep, calming breaths can also help manage any nervousness; you've got this.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Minneapolis or to Burbank.

More from Minneapolis

More to Burbank

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.