Phoenix to Savannah Turbulence Forecast

PHX → SAV · 1,785 miles · ~4h 4m

What to Expect

Your Phoenix to Savannah flight, heading east, will cross diverse landscapes, each with its own potential for turbulence. Initially, you'll fly over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence, caused by rising warm air, is common, especially during the day. As you continue, you'll encounter the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence can occur as wind flows over the peaks. Further along, the flight path takes you over Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley, areas known for severe convective turbulence due to thunderstorms, particularly in warmer months. Finally, you'll cross the Southeast Interior, where convective turbulence can also develop. Pilots are very familiar with these patterns and use weather forecasting and radar to navigate them safely, often finding smoother air at different altitudes or adjusting the flight path slightly.

The Phoenix to Savannah 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

• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• Severe Convective Turbulence: Tornado Alley supercells produce some of the most intense convective turbulence in North American aviation.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible ride, aim to fly this route in the winter or late fall. The air is generally more stable during these times, reducing the chance of thermal or convective turbulence. Summer, late winter, spring, and early summer tend to be bumpier. Warmer weather fuels thermal activity over the deserts and convective storms over Tornado Alley, the Mississippi Valley, and the Southeast Interior. Mountain wave turbulence can also be more pronounced in the spring as winds strengthen over the Rockies.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking an early morning flight is often your best bet; the air tends to be calmer before it heats up. If you do experience bumps, remember that most turbulence on this route is like driving on a slightly bumpy road, a jostling rather than a dramatic drop. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, as it tends to experience less motion, stay hydrated, and practice deep, slow breathing to stay relaxed. Remember, pilots are highly skilled at managing turbulence, and your safety is their top priority.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.