Tulsa to Austin Turbulence Forecast

TUL → AUS · 427 miles · ~1h 21m

What to Expect

Flying south from Tulsa to Austin, you'll cross a fascinating mix of geographic features that influence the air. Leaving Tulsa, you'll enter Tornado Alley, known for severe convective turbulence, especially when storms are brewing. As you continue south over the Great Plains, expect the possibility of clear-air turbulence, or CAT, which is caused by shifting air currents at higher altitudes. Finally, as you approach Austin and the Gulf Coast, convective turbulence from warm, moist air rising can create some bumps. These aren't surprises though. Pilots are trained to interpret weather patterns and use onboard radar to navigate these conditions. The flight path is short enough that pilots can choose a slightly different altitude or path to avoid the worst of any turbulence. They do this all the time.

Between Tulsa and Austin, the flight path crosses Tornado Alley, the region stretching from Texas through Oklahoma and Kansas where severe convective storms are most frequent in the U.S. Supercell thunderstorms in this region produce extreme updrafts and downdrafts, and flights are routinely deviated around these cells, especially in spring and early summer.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Severe Convective Turbulence: Tornado Alley supercells produce some of the most intense convective turbulence in North American aviation.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The fall months are generally the calmest for this route. Winter can also be fairly smooth, aside from occasional cold weather systems. Summer is moderately bumpy, with heat contributing to more convective turbulence, and early spring can be unpredictable as weather transitions. Spring, especially, tends to be the bumpiest, due to the increased storm activity in Tornado Alley and the Great Plains. These seasonal factors play a significant role in determining the likelihood and intensity of turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

Opt for a morning flight if possible. The air is usually calmer before the day heats up, which can reduce convective turbulence. Any turbulence you experience on this Tulsa to Austin route is likely to feel like driving on a road with some potholes, rather than anything alarming. Choose a seat over the wing for slightly less noticeable motion, drink plenty of water leading up to your flight, and remember to breathe deeply. You'll be in Austin before you know it, and the pilots are always working to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.