Tulsa to Savannah Turbulence Forecast

TUL → SAV · 884 miles · ~2h 16m

What to Expect

Your flight from Tulsa to Savannah, a roughly 2 hour and 16 minute eastward journey, does cross a few areas known for turbulence. Immediately after takeoff, you'll be over Tornado Alley, an area that can experience severe convective turbulence, especially during certain times of the year, due to unstable air masses clashing. As you continue east, you'll fly over the Ozark Plateau and the Mississippi Valley, both regions susceptible to convective turbulence as well. Further along your route, you'll cross the Southeast Interior which may also have convective turbulence. Finally, as you approach Savannah, you'll encounter the Southern Appalachians, where mechanical turbulence can occur as wind interacts with the mountains. These are common weather patterns pilots are well-trained to manage; they use onboard radar and reports from other pilots to navigate the smoothest possible path.

Between Tulsa and Savannah, 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.
• Mechanical Turbulence: The Southern Appalachians produce terrain-induced chop, especially during strong wind events and summer convection over the ridgeline.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the calmest flight, aim to travel during the fall or late fall. Winter and spring can also be relatively smooth. Spring and early summer tend to be the bumpiest seasons on this route. This is mainly because these are peak times for thunderstorm activity and unstable air masses over Tornado Alley, the Ozark Plateau, the Mississippi Valley, and the Southeast Interior, all of which can contribute to convective turbulence. Winter can also bring mechanical turbulence over the Southern Appalachians.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight often leads to a smoother experience, as the atmosphere tends to be more stable earlier in the day. Any turbulence you do encounter on this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road for a few minutes at a time. To help stay relaxed, choose a seat over the wing, which tends to experience less motion, and be sure to stay hydrated before and during the flight. Remember, the crew is there to assist you, and they will keep you informed throughout the flight.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.