The flight path between Denver, Colorado, and Jackson, Wyoming, has been identified as the most turbulent in North America, according to a 2025 study by aviation information company Turbli. This 1.7-hour route covers terrain known for atmospheric disturbances.
The study analyzed 10,000 flight routes from 550 major airports worldwide, measuring turbulence intensity using the eddy dissipation rate (EDR). While the average EDR for the Denver-Jackson route was 18.18, Turbli noted that yearly averages can appear low but still rank routes based on consistent conditions.
This route, like others identified as turbulent, crosses mountainous regions. The Denver-Jackson flight traverses parts of the U.S. Rocky Mountains. Globally, the most turbulent route identified was between Mendoza, Argentina, and Santiago, Chile, with an EDR of nearly 23, crossing the Andes Mountains.
Turbulence, defined by the National Weather Service as irregular air motion caused by eddies and vertical currents, is a common, albeit unsettling, aspect of air travel. Recent findings suggest an increase in turbulence intensity. Dr. Paul Williams, a professor of atmospheric science, noted that environmental factors are contributing to this trend.
Williams cited research indicating a significant rise in turbulence over the North Atlantic and North America since the 1970s, with percentages of 55% and 44% respectively. This increase is attributed to greater energy output and atmospheric stirring. While advancements in aviation technology are being explored to mitigate turbulence, it remains an ongoing challenge.
The discussion of turbulence comes in the wake of a fatal Learjet crash in Palm Beach County, Florida, which resulted in nine fatalities. While the official cause is under investigation, the co-pilot had reportedly mentioned experiencing turbulence and ice shortly before the incident.