Is the flight from Barcelona to New York bumpy?
The Barcelona–New York flight is usually smooth, with some bumpy stretches at certain times of year. Here is where the plane can move, when it happens most, and how to check today’s forecast for your flight.
Where the plane can move
North Atlantic: the jet stream
This stretch crosses the area with the strongest jet streams in the northern hemisphere. Near them you sometimes get clear-air turbulence: bumps with no clouds in sight, usually light and lasting a few minutes. Pilots get forecasts for these areas before departure and change altitude to avoid them.
Alps and Pyrenees: wind over mountains
Crossing the Alps or the Pyrenees in strong wind can bring some movement from mountain waves. At cruising altitude it is usually barely noticeable.
At the airports
New York gets summer afternoon storms and winter gales; in strong winds the arrival can be a bit bumpier.
Today’s warnings in the area
Live map of turbulence and storm warnings issued to pilots (SIGMET and AIRMET), updated every few minutes.
Tips for this flight
- Seats over the wings usually feel the least movement; the back of the plane feels the most.
- Keep your seatbelt fastened whenever you are seated, even with the sign off. The FAA warns that turbulence can throw unbelted passengers from their seats without warning.
- If the captain switches on the seatbelt sign, it is a precaution: turbulence is a normal part of flying.
Frequently asked questions
Is turbulence dangerous on the Barcelona–New York flight?
Turbulence is common and usually just uncomfortable. According to the FAA, the real risk is for people not wearing a seatbelt, who can be thrown from their seats, so keep it fastened while seated.
When is the Barcelona–New York flight bumpiest?
Based on the areas the route crosses: December to March; in strong winds, more in winter.
Where should I sit to feel less turbulence?
Over the wings, near the plane’s centre of gravity. The rear of the cabin moves the most.
Other routes
- Madrid – New York
- Madrid – Barcelona
- New York – London
- New York – Los Angeles
- New York – Miami
- Mexico City – New York
Nervous about flying? Try the three breathing exercises for a calm flight or look at the live turbulence maps.