Is the flight from Madrid to Santiago bumpy?
The Madrid–Santiago flight is a route with a few areas where bumps are common, depending on the season. 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
Intertropical Convergence Zone: tropical storms
Near the equator the winds of both hemispheres meet and form a band of thunderclouds, most active over land and in the afternoon. Pilots see them on the onboard radar and fly around them; passing the edge of those clouds is what brings the bumpy moments.
The Andes: mountain waves
The Andes are among the highest mountain ranges in the world. With strong winds, waves form downwind of the peaks and can move the plane, mostly when climbing or descending near them. Crews who fly here daily know it well and adjust route and altitude.
At the airports
Santiago sits at the foot of the Andes: climbing or descending across the range is when movement is most likely.
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.
- In the tropics, morning flights usually meet fewer storms than afternoon ones.
Frequently asked questions
Is turbulence dangerous on the Madrid–Santiago 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 Madrid–Santiago flight bumpiest?
Based on the areas the route crosses: all year; it shifts north from July to September; with strong winds; in the highlands, mostly in the afternoon.
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 – Miami
- Madrid – Bogotá
- Madrid – Mexico City
- Madrid – Buenos Aires
- Madrid – Lima
Nervous about flying? Try the three breathing exercises for a calm flight or look at the live turbulence maps.