Is the flight to Mexico turbulent?
It depends on the coast and time of day. Cruise over the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific is usually smooth. The bumps come from convective turbulence — thunderstorms over the Sierra Madre mountains and the Yucatán that build on warm afternoons, strongest in the May–October rainy season.
When is the smoothest time to fly to Mexico?
The dry season (November–April) has the calmest air, and morning flights year-round beat the afternoon thunderstorm build-up. The summer rainy season brings daily convective turbulence, especially late in the day and near the mountains.
Does the Sierra Madre cause turbulence?
Yes. Flights to Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos and Mexico City can hit mountain-wave and afternoon convective turbulence near the Sierra Madre. Approaches into high-altitude Mexico City (7,300 ft) can be bumpy when afternoon storms build over the surrounding peaks.
Where should I sit on a flight to Mexico?
Over the wing gives the steadiest ride. Keep your belt fastened on descent, where sea-breeze and convective turbulence near the coast or mountains can cause brief bumps on warm afternoons.