Norfolk to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

ORF → BUR · 2,358 miles · ~5h 13m

What to Expect

This Norfolk to Burbank route, clocking in at over 2300 miles, crosses a wide variety of terrain and weather systems, so experiencing some turbulence is normal. Early in the flight, expect possible clear-air turbulence off the Atlantic Seaboard. As you move inland, the Southern Appalachians can create mechanical turbulence, and the Ohio Valley may bring frontal turbulence. Crossing the Mississippi Valley and the Ozark Plateau means the potential for convective turbulence, and Tornado Alley could present severe convective turbulence. Later, over the Great Plains, you might encounter more clear-air turbulence, while the Southern Rockies are known for mountain wave turbulence. Finally, approaching Burbank, the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts sometimes generate thermal turbulence. Pilots are very familiar with these regional weather patterns and are skilled at navigating them, using onboard radar and reports from other aircraft to find the smoothest possible path.

The Norfolk to Burbank 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

• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The Atlantic coast jet stream and land-sea temperature contrasts create frequent clear-air turbulence at cruising altitude.
• Mechanical Turbulence: The Southern Appalachians produce terrain-induced chop, especially during strong wind events and summer convection over the ridgeline.
• 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 calmest flight, aim for a summer, early fall, or fall trip, as these seasons tend to have more stable air masses over much of the route. Winter, spring, early summer, early spring, and late winter can be more turbulent. This is because these seasons bring stronger jet streams that cause clear-air turbulence over the plains, more frequent storms that lead to convective turbulence over the central states, and stronger winds interacting with the Rockies, generating mountain wave turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight often means less convective turbulence as the air hasn't had as much time to heat up. Any turbulence you experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving on a bumpy, unpaved road, not a sudden drop. Choosing a seat over the wing is thought to provide a slightly more stable experience. Remember to stay hydrated during your flight, and focus on slow, deep breaths to help you stay relaxed. You've got this, and the crew is there to support you every step of the way.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.