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PHX to JFK Turbulence Forecast

Is the Phoenix to New York flight turbulent? Live forecast & historical patterns.

Live forecast
PHX
→
JFK
Phoenix · New York · 4h 30m
42
Turb Score
4h 30m
Duration
1,862 nm
Distance
35,000 ft
Cruise Alt.
Light
Typical
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Typical turbulence along the route

Historical average pattern for PHX–JFK

Smooth Light Moderate
0h1h2h3h4h5h6h4h 30m
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Heavy

About the PHX–JFK route

The Phoenix to New York route crosses the Rocky Mountains — one of the most turbulent regions in North America. Mountain wave turbulence occurs when strong winds blow over mountain peaks, creating powerful invisible waves that extend to cruise altitude. The worst turbulence typically occurs in the first 30–60 minutes when the aircraft is climbing over the range.

The route is served by American Airlines, JetBlue on Boeing 737 · Airbus A321 aircraft, with flights typically cruising at 35,000 feet over a distance of 2,145 miles (1,862 nautical miles).

💡 Tip: Mountain wave turbulence hits early. If flying over Rockies, expect the first hour to be bumpy.

Turbulence levels on PHX–JFK

What to expect at each phase of the flight

SmoothDeparture & arrival — climb and descent phases are generally calm
LightMinor bumps — drink stays in your cup, walking feels slightly unsteady
ModerateNoticeable bumps — stay seated with seatbelt on, service may pause
HeavyStrong jolts — unsecured items move, crew seated. Rare but possible

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Best time to fly PHX–JFK

Turbulence by month

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Rough

Best seat on PHX–JFK

Boeing 737

Front
Rows 1–9
Light
✓ Wing
Rows 10–20
Smoothest
Rear
Rows 21+
Rougher
Wing seats are over the center of gravity — least affected by turbulence.

What you'll see in the app

Full forecast, live map & seat recommendations

PHX to JFK turbulence forecast app
Flight turbulence tracker
Real-time turbulence map

Similar routes

Other popular routes with turbulence data

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LAX → PHX
Los Angeles → Phoenix
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See all mountain routes →
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Frequently asked questions

Is the Phoenix to New York flight turbulent?
The PHX–JFK route typically experiences light turbulence. Light turbulence may occur — mostly smooth with occasional bumps. The turbulence score for this route is 42/100.
When is turbulence worst on PHX to JFK?
Mountain wave turbulence hits early. If flying over Rockies, expect the first hour to be bumpy. Check the turbulence chart above for the typical pattern along this specific route.
Which seat is smoothest on PHX to JFK?
Wing seats are always the smoothest. On a Boeing 737 (the most common aircraft on this route), that's rows 10–20. Avoid the very rear of the aircraft — it amplifies turbulence motion.
How long is the flight from PHX to JFK?
The PHX to JFK flight takes approximately 4h 30m, covering 2,145 miles (1,862 nautical miles).
Which airlines fly PHX to JFK?
The main airlines operating this route are American Airlines, JetBlue, flying Boeing 737 · Airbus A321 aircraft.