New York LaGuardia to Spokane Turbulence Forecast

LGA → GEG · 2,183 miles · ~4h 52m

What to Expect

The New York to Spokane flight covers a lot of ground, and you'll likely encounter a few different types of turbulence. Departing from LaGuardia, the initial climb might have some mechanical turbulence as you cross the Northern Appalachians; this is caused by wind interacting with the mountains. As you head out over the Atlantic Seaboard and then the Upper Midwest and Great Plains, be prepared for some clear-air turbulence, or CAT. CAT is caused by shifting air currents at high altitudes. As you fly near the Great Lakes, especially in cooler months, be aware of lake-effect turbulence, which is created when cold air passes over the relatively warmer lake waters. Approaching Spokane over the Northern Rockies, you might experience mountain wave turbulence; this is similar to mechanical turbulence but can be stronger and felt further away from the mountains. Pilots are very familiar with these regional patterns and use sophisticated weather forecasting tools to anticipate and navigate them.

The New York LaGuardia to Spokane route crosses the Northern Rockies, a rugged expanse of high peaks in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. Mountain wave turbulence is frequent here, especially when Pacific storm systems push strong winds over the Continental Divide. Pilots often report moderate chop between 30,000 and 40,000 feet over this region.

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.
• Lake-Effect Turbulence: The Great Lakes produce lake-effect convection and low-level wind shear from land-water temperature contrasts.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Northern Rockies generate powerful lee waves when Pacific fronts drive westerly flow across the high terrain.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim for summer or early fall. The weather tends to be more stable during these times, with less temperature contrast, resulting in fewer opportunities for significant turbulence. Winter, late fall, early winter, early spring, and spring tend to be the bumpiest. Colder temperatures interacting with the Great Lakes can cause lake-effect turbulence, and stronger jet streams create more clear-air turbulence over the plains. Mountain wave turbulence near the Rockies is also more prevalent during these months.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, try to book a morning flight; the atmosphere is often calmer earlier in the day. Any turbulence you encounter on this route is most likely to feel like driving on a bumpy road or encountering some strong gusts of wind. Request a seat over the wing of the plane; this is generally the most stable part of the aircraft. Remember to stay hydrated and practice deep, slow breathing to help you relax. The flight crew is there to help; don't hesitate to ask questions or let them know how you're feeling. They're trained to handle these situations and want to make your flight as comfortable as possible.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.