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RNO to SLC Turbulence Forecast

Is the Reno to Salt Lake City flight turbulent? Live forecast & historical patterns.

Live forecast
RNO
→
SLC
Reno · Salt Lake City · 1h 10m
8.7
Turb Score
1h 10m
Duration
354 nm
Distance
28,000 ft
Cruise Alt.
moderate-severe
Typical
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Typical turbulence along the route

Historical average pattern for RNO–SLC

Smooth Light Moderate
0h1h2h3h4h5h6h1h 10m
Smooth
Light
Moderate
Heavy

About the RNO–SLC route

The Reno to Salt Lake City 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 Delta, Southwest, United on Embraer 175 · Boeing 737 aircraft, with flights typically cruising at 28,000 feet over a distance of 407 miles (354 nautical miles).

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

Turbulence levels on RNO–SLC

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 RNO–SLC

Turbulence by month

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

Best seat on RNO–SLC

Embraer 175

Front
Rows 1–11
Light
✓ Wing
Rows 12-18
Smoothest
Rear
Rows 19+
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

RNO to SLC turbulence forecast app
Flight turbulence tracker
Real-time turbulence map

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Reno to Salt Lake City flight turbulent?
The RNO–SLC route typically experiences moderate-severe turbulence. The turbulence score for this route is 8.7/100.
When is turbulence worst on RNO to SLC?
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 RNO to SLC?
Wing seats are always the smoothest. On a Embraer 175 (the most common aircraft on this route), that's rows 12-18. Avoid the very rear of the aircraft — it amplifies turbulence motion.
How long is the flight from RNO to SLC?
The RNO to SLC flight takes approximately 1h 10m, covering 407 miles (354 nautical miles).
Which airlines fly RNO to SLC?
The main airlines operating this route are Delta, Southwest, United, flying Embraer 175 · Boeing 737 aircraft.