Tulsa to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

TUL → BUR · 1,273 miles · ~3h 3m

What to Expect

The Tulsa to Burbank flight is a westward journey across diverse landscapes, so it's normal to experience some bumps along the way. Shortly after takeoff from Tulsa, you'll be crossing through Tornado Alley, which can bring 'severe convective turbulence', especially during storm season. As you continue west over the Great Plains, anticipate the possibility of 'clear-air turbulence' (CAT), which is caused by shifting air currents at high altitudes. Flying over the Southern Rockies, you might encounter 'mountain wave turbulence', where wind interacts with the terrain. Finally, as you descend toward Burbank, you'll cross the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where rising heat can generate 'thermal turbulence', particularly during the day. Pilots are trained to anticipate and navigate these conditions, using weather forecasts and radar to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

The Tulsa 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

• 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.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible ride on this route, aim to fly in the fall, when the atmosphere is typically more stable. Winter can also be fairly smooth, but there is a chance of turbulence due to mountain waves over the Rockies. Spring and early summer are often the bumpiest times to fly this route because of increased storm activity in Tornado Alley. Late winter and early spring can also bring turbulence over the Rockies. Summer, while generally calmer than spring, can still produce thermal turbulence over the deserts.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking a morning flight is often your best bet, as the atmosphere tends to be calmer earlier in the day, before the desert heat builds. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving on a bumpy road, a bit shaky but generally manageable. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, where motion is minimized, and remember to stay hydrated. Taking slow, deep breaths can also help you relax. Remember that the pilots are expertly trained, and turbulence is a normal part of flying. You'll be in Burbank before you know it.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.