New York LaGuardia to Phoenix Turbulence Forecast

LGA → PHX · 2,144 miles · ~4h 47m

What to Expect

Your flight from LaGuardia to Phoenix crosses a wide variety of terrain, meaning you might experience different types of turbulence. Initially, expect possible mechanical turbulence as you fly over the Northern Appalachians. As you head out over the Atlantic Seaboard, clear-air turbulence, which is often invisible, can occur. Over the Ohio and Mississippi Valleys, frontal and convective turbulence could bring some bumps. Tornado Alley's severe convective turbulence is a factor, especially in certain seasons, but pilots are adept at navigating around these areas. Finally, approaching Phoenix, the Southern Rockies might cause mountain wave turbulence, and the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts can create thermal turbulence. Pilots are always monitoring conditions and adjusting course or altitude as needed to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

The New York LaGuardia to Phoenix 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

• Mechanical Turbulence: The Northern Appalachians generate low-level mechanical turbulence during strong post-frontal northwest winds.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The Atlantic coast jet stream and land-sea temperature contrasts create frequent clear-air turbulence at cruising altitude.
• Frontal Turbulence: The Ohio Valley is a preferred storm track where frontal boundaries and embedded convection create turbulence year-round.
• Convective Turbulence: The Mississippi Valley is a breeding ground for squall lines and mesoscale convective systems that produce widespread turbulence.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible ride, aim to fly this route in the early fall or winter. During these times, convective turbulence is less common, and the air tends to be more stable over the Great Plains and Tornado Alley. Winter, spring, early summer, and early spring, however, tend to be bumpier. This is when frontal systems are more active over the Ohio Valley, convective activity increases in the Mississippi Valley and Tornado Alley, and thermal turbulence is more pronounced over the deserts of the Southwest. Late winter and summer can also be more turbulent due to similar atmospheric conditions.

Tips for This Flight

Opt for an early morning flight if possible, as the atmosphere tends to be calmer then, reducing the likelihood of thermal turbulence over the deserts. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road or the sensation of a brief dip on a roller coaster. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, as that area experiences less motion during turbulence. Staying hydrated will also help you feel your best, so bring a water bottle to sip throughout the flight. Remember, the pilots and crew are highly trained and experienced in managing these conditions.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from New York LaGuardia or to Phoenix.

More from New York LaGuardia

More to Phoenix

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.