For some travellers, flying is an exciting adventure, but turbulent flights can turn it into a bumpy experience.
Turbli, a turbulence prediction website, has analyzed approximately 150,000 routes to identify the most turbulent flights of 2023, measured by the “eddy dissipation rate,” which gauges turbulence intensity.
Top Turbulent Routes Worldwide
The most turbulent route spans 1,180 miles between Santiago, Chile, and Viru Viru International Airport in Bolivia. Close behind is the journey between Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Causes of Turbulence
According to Ignacio Gallego Marcos, Turbli’s founder, routes over mountain ranges like the Andes or Alps experience high turbulence due to mountain wave activity.
Meanwhile, flights in Japan and China encounter significant turbulence due to strong jet stream activity blowing from west to east, about five to seven miles above the Earth’s surface.
Notable Routes
In Japan and China, six of the most turbulent routes were domestic, often involving flights to or from Lanzhou, Chengdu, or Xianyang. In Europe, Milan to Geneva tops the list as the most turbulent route, followed by Milan to Zurich.
Prepare for journey
Awareness of these routes can help travellers prepare for potentially bumpy rides.
Turbulence is a common part of air travel, and staying informed through services like Turbli or checking with airlines for updates can ensure a smoother journey.
Top 10 Turbulent Flight Routes
- Santiago (SCL)-Santa Cruz (VVI)
- Almaty (ALA)-Bishkek (FRU)
- Lanzhou (LHW)-Chengdu (CTU)
- Centrair (NGO)-Sendai (SDJ)
- Milan (MXP) – Geneva (GVA)
- Lanzhou (LHW) – Xianyang (XIY)
- Osaka (KIX)-Sendai (SDJ)
- Xianyang (XIY) – Chengdu (CTU)
- Zurich (ZRH) – Geneva (GVA)
- Milan (MXP) – Zurich (ZRH)
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your next trip, knowing about these routes can help you prepare for a potentially turbulent flight. Always prioritize safety and stay informed for a smoother journey.
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