Is the flight from New York to London bumpy?
The New York–London 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.
At the airports
New York gets summer afternoon storms and winter gales; in strong winds the arrival can be a bit bumpier.
London often gets windy Atlantic fronts; gusty approaches are common in autumn and winter.
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 New York–London 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 New York–London flight bumpiest?
Based on the areas the route crosses: December to March.
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
- Barcelona – New York
- Madrid – London
- New York – Los Angeles
- New York – Miami
- London – Dubai
Nervous about flying? Try the three breathing exercises for a calm flight or look at the live turbulence maps.