Why is turbulence so bad over the Rockies?
Mountain wave turbulence forms when strong winds cross mountain ridges perpendicularly. The Rockies are particularly severe because of their height (many peaks over 14,000 ft) and orientation. Turbulence can extend 50–100 miles downwind of the peaks, affecting flights nowhere near the mountains.
Which Rocky Mountain routes are most turbulent?
Denver (DEN) to Jackson Hole (JAC) is consistently the most turbulent US route. Aspen (ASE) to Denver, Bozeman (BZN) to Denver, and Grand Junction (GJT) to Denver are all severe. Any flight approaching or departing Denver from the west crosses the Front Range turbulence zone.
Is Aspen airport really that turbulent?
Yes — Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is one of the most turbulent airports in the US. The approach requires flying through Roaring Fork Valley surrounded by 14,000-ft peaks. Crosswinds, mountain waves, and rapid altitude changes make it a challenging approach. Pilots require special training.
What time of year is worst for Rocky Mountain turbulence?
Winter and spring (November through April) are worst, when jet stream winds are strongest. However, mountain wave turbulence can occur year-round whenever winds exceed 25–30 knots across the peaks. Summer thunderstorms add convective turbulence from June through August.