Phoenix

Is Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport turbulent?

Phoenix experiences some of the most intense thermal turbulence of any major airport due to extreme desert heat. Summer ground temperatures exceeding 150F create powerful updrafts that make afternoon flights notably bumpy at low altitude. Monsoon season (June-September) brings haboobs and microbursts that can rapidly deteriorate conditions. Pilots report Phoenix summer approaches are among the roughest in the US.

• Haboobs can reach heights of 5,000-10,000 feet
• Summer temperatures regularly limit aircraft takeoff weights
• Monsoon microbursts create dangerous wind shear

What is a haboob?

A haboob is an intense dust storm caused by outflow winds from collapsing thunderstorm cells. Walls of dust several thousand feet high roll across the desert, reducing visibility to near zero within minutes. Phoenix experiences several major haboobs each monsoon season, typically in the late afternoon or evening when thunderstorms are most active. Flights may divert or hold until the dust settles.

When is flying from Phoenix smoothest?

November through April offers comfortable temperatures and minimal storm activity. Early morning flights year-round avoid the worst thermal turbulence that builds through the afternoon. Summer flying (June-September) is notably rough, with monsoon storms adding haboob and microburst risks to already bumpy thermal conditions. If flying in summer, depart before 9 AM.