Minneapolis to Des Moines Turbulence Forecast

MSP → DSM · 233 miles · ~58m

What to Expect

That Minneapolis to Des Moines flight is a quick hop south, just under an hour. Because you're mostly crossing the Upper Midwest, the most common type of turbulence you might experience is clear-air turbulence, or CAT. CAT is caused by shifting air currents at higher altitudes. These aren't associated with storms, so they can be hard to see, but your pilots are always monitoring weather conditions and using their instruments to anticipate and navigate around any bumpy patches. Even if you do encounter some CAT, remember that pilots deal with these atmospheric conditions routinely; it's a normal part of flying, especially over this region. You are flying through the air, after all, and the air is always moving!

Between Minneapolis and Des Moines, the flight passes over the Upper Midwest, where the polar jet stream frequently dips southward in winter, creating a broad zone of clear-air turbulence. The flat terrain means mountain waves are not a factor, but the jet stream's proximity to the surface in this region amplifies CAT intensity at typical cruise altitudes.

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.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The smoothest flights on this route are usually during the summer and early fall. The atmosphere tends to be more stable then. Winter can be a bit bumpier. The jet stream (a high-altitude wind current) is stronger and more active, leading to increased clear-air turbulence. This is just a general trend, though; weather is dynamic, and smooth flights are possible any time of year. Checking forecasts closer to your travel dates will give you the most accurate picture.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence on this route, consider booking a morning flight; the air tends to be calmer earlier in the day. Any turbulence you might encounter would probably feel like driving over a few small, unexpected bumps in the road. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, as it's the most stable part of the plane, and remember to stay hydrated. Taking slow, deep breaths can also help calm your nerves. Try to focus on the fact that turbulence is a normal, manageable part of flying, and your pilots are well-trained to handle it.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Minneapolis or to Des Moines.

More from Minneapolis

More to Des Moines

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.