Is the flight from New York to Los Angeles bumpy?
The New York–Los Angeles 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
Over the United States: jet stream and summer storms
Flying coast to coast you cross the jet stream, which is stronger in winter. In summer, afternoon thunderstorms build over the middle and southeast of the country; planes fly around them, which can make the flight a little longer.
Rocky Mountains: mountain waves
When strong winds blow across the Rockies they create mountain waves: the air rises and falls like water behind a rock in a river. You feel them as a gentle rocking and sometimes a firmer bump, mostly during the climb or descent.
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 New York–Los Angeles 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–Los Angeles flight bumpiest?
Based on the areas the route crosses: in winter (jet stream) and on summer afternoons (storms); with strong westerly winds, more often 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
- Barcelona – New York
- New York – London
- New York – Miami
- Los Angeles – Honolulu
- Mexico City – New York
Nervous about flying? Try the three breathing exercises for a calm flight or look at the live turbulence maps.