Denver International Airport (DEN) has become the center of attention for turbulence in North American air travel. As of 2025, four of the top five most turbulent flight routes in the United States are linked to Denver, according to the latest data from Turbli, a leading turbulence analytics platform. This ranked list will break down the top five most turbulent routes, explain why these routes are so bumpy, and provide practical information for travelers, airlines, and anyone interested in air travel safety. The ranking is based on Turbli’s 2024 turbulence scores, which measure the average level of turbulence experienced on each route. Each section will cover the route’s turbulence score, reasons for turbulence, what passengers can expect, and tips for safer travel.
Ranking Criteria and Methodology
The rankings use Turbli’s 2024 turbulence data, which assigns a turbulence score to each route. The higher the score, the bumpier the route. These scores are based on real flight data, weather patterns, and reports from pilots and airlines. The list focuses on routes either starting or ending at Denver International Airport, reflecting the airport’s unique position as the most turbulence-prone in North America. Each entry includes:
- Route details and turbulence score
- Distance and flight duration
- Main causes of turbulence
- Recent incidents or news
- Advice for travelers
- Relevant costs, processes, and benefits
- Stakeholder perspectives
Let’s look at each of the top five most turbulent routes in North America for 2024–2025.
1. Albuquerque (ABQ) to Denver (DEN) – The Bumpiest Route in North America
- Turbulence Score: 17.751 (highest in North America)
- Distance: 349 miles
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Why is this route so turbulent?
The Albuquerque to Denver route crosses the Rocky Mountains, where strong winds and sudden changes in air pressure are common. Denver International Airport sits at a high altitude, and the area’s geography creates swirling air currents. The jet stream—a fast-moving river of air high above the ground—often passes over this region, making turbulence even worse.
What do travelers experience?
Passengers on this route often feel sudden bumps, drops, and shakes, especially during takeoff and landing. While these movements can be scary, they are rarely dangerous if seat belts are fastened. Airlines advise travelers to keep their seat belts on whenever seated, even if the seat belt sign is off.
Recent incidents and news
No major accidents have been reported on this route in recent months, but the high turbulence score means that pilots and airlines pay extra attention to safety. Airlines use real-time data from Turbli and other sources to plan the smoothest possible flight paths.
Practical tips for travelers
– Always keep your seat belt fastened when seated.
– Book morning flights if possible, as turbulence is often lighter earlier in the day.
– Check turbulence forecasts on Turbli’s website before your trip.
– If you’re nervous about turbulence, let the flight crew know. They can offer reassurance and advice.
Costs and benefits
There are no extra fees for flying this route, but some travelers may choose to pay for seat upgrades to feel more secure. The main benefit is that this route connects two major cities quickly, despite the bumpy ride.
2. Denver (DEN) to Jackson (JAC) – Second Most Turbulent Route
- Turbulence Score: 17.454
- Distance: 406 miles
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes
| Feature | Route 1: ABQ to DEN | Route 2: DEN to JAC | Route 3: JAC to SLC | Route 4: DEN to SLC | Route 5: BZN to DEN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbulence Score | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Distance | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Flight Duration | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Why is this route so turbulent?
Like the Albuquerque to Denver route, this flight crosses the Rocky Mountains. The area between Denver and Jackson is known for strong winds, especially in winter and spring. The jet stream often dips south over this region, causing sudden changes in air pressure and wind speed.
What do travelers experience?
Passengers may feel frequent bumps and shakes, especially when the plane climbs or descends through mountain air. The turbulence can be strong enough to make walking in the cabin unsafe, so flight attendants often pause service during rough patches.
Recent incidents and news
While no major accidents have occurred on this route recently, pilots are trained to handle these conditions. Airlines use advanced weather forecasting to avoid the worst turbulence when possible.
Practical tips for travelers
– Choose seats over the wings for a smoother ride.
– Listen to crew instructions and stay seated during turbulence.
– Pack light and secure your belongings to prevent items from falling.
Costs and benefits
Ticket prices are similar to other short-haul flights. The benefit is quick access to Jackson, a popular destination for outdoor activities, even if the journey is bumpy.
3. Jackson (JAC) to Salt Lake City (SLC) – Third Place for Turbulence
- Turbulence Score: 17.419
- Distance: 204 miles
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour
Why is this route so turbulent?
This short flight crosses mountainous terrain and is affected by strong winds funneled through valleys. The jet stream’s position often brings unstable air, especially in spring and fall.
What do travelers experience?
Because the flight is short, turbulence can feel more intense, with little time for smooth cruising. Passengers may experience quick, sharp bumps, especially during ascent and descent.
Recent incidents and news
No major turbulence-related injuries have been reported, but airlines remind passengers to stay buckled up at all times.
Practical tips for travelers
– Arrive early to avoid rushing, as weather delays are common.
– Keep personal items stowed to prevent spills.
– If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medication or remedies.
Costs and benefits
Fares are usually affordable, and the route is important for connecting smaller cities to major hubs. The main challenge is the frequent turbulence, but flights are short.
4. Denver (DEN) to Salt Lake City (SLC) – Fourth Most Turbulent Route
- Turbulence Score: 16.948
- Distance: 391 miles
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Why is this route so turbulent?
The Denver to Salt Lake City route crosses the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where weather can change quickly. The area is known for strong updrafts and downdrafts—vertical movements of air that cause sudden bumps.
What do travelers experience?
Passengers may feel a mix of light and moderate turbulence throughout the flight. The approach into Salt Lake City can be especially rough if winds are strong.
Recent incidents and news
A recent Delta Air Lines flight from Salt Lake City to Amsterdam experienced severe turbulence, leading to 25 hospitalizations. While this was not a Denver-linked route, it has increased awareness of turbulence risks in the region.
Practical tips for travelers
– Check weather updates before your flight.
– Avoid hot drinks during the flight, as spills are more likely.
– If you’re traveling with children, make sure their seat belts are snug.
Costs and benefits
Ticket prices are standard for this distance. The benefit is a fast connection between two major cities, but travelers should be prepared for a bumpy ride.
5. Bozeman (BZN) to Denver (DEN) – Fifth Most Turbulent Route
- Turbulence Score: 16.688
- Distance: 534 miles
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Why is this route so turbulent?
This route crosses the northern Rockies, where weather systems from Canada 🇨🇦 and the Pacific Northwest meet. The combination of mountain winds and changing air temperatures creates frequent turbulence.
What do travelers experience?
Passengers may notice turbulence soon after takeoff and again during descent into Denver International Airport. The ride can be especially rough in winter, when storms are common.
Recent incidents and news
No major incidents have been reported, but pilots often warn passengers about expected turbulence before departure.
Practical tips for travelers
– Dress comfortably and avoid tight clothing, as turbulence can be uncomfortable.
– Secure loose items in the overhead bin or under the seat.
– If you’re anxious, practice deep breathing or bring distractions like music or books.
Costs and benefits
Fares are similar to other regional flights. The main benefit is a direct link between Bozeman and Denver, important for both business and leisure travelers.
Understanding the Causes of Turbulence at Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport’s location makes it especially prone to turbulence. The airport sits over 5,000 feet above sea level, close to the Rocky Mountains. This geography causes strong and unpredictable air currents. The jet stream often passes over Denver, bringing fast-moving air that can cause sudden bumps. These factors combine to make Denver the most turbulent airport in North America, with an average turbulence score of 17.29 across all flights.
| Country/Type | Visa Category | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| USA | Flight from Albuquerque to Denver | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| USA | Flight from Denver to Jackson | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| USA | Flight from Jackson to Salt Lake City | 1 hour |
| USA | Flight from Denver to Salt Lake City | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| USA | Flight from Bozeman to Denver | 1 hour 45 minutes |
Recent Airline and Route Developments
Despite the turbulence, airlines are expanding service at Denver International Airport. Frontier Airlines has announced four new nonstop routes starting October 2025, bringing its total to 72 nonstop destinations from Denver. United Airlines has launched Denver’s first-ever nonstop service to Rome and added new routes to Regina, Peoria, Buffalo, Redding, and Wilmington. Contour Airlines has expanded service to Page, Arizona, and Taos, New Mexico, with more connections to Moab and Vernal, Utah. These expansions show that airlines see Denver as a key hub, even with its turbulence challenges.
Safety, Policy, and Practical Guidance
As of August 2025, there are no new federal rules from the FAA or DOT specifically for turbulence on Denver routes. Airlines rely on advanced weather forecasting, real-time turbulence reporting, and pilot training to keep passengers safe. Passengers are advised to keep seat belts fastened at all times when seated, especially on Denver-linked routes. Turbli and similar platforms offer turbulence forecasts up to 36 hours in advance, helping travelers plan their trips.
Stakeholder Perspectives
- Denver International Airport officials are investing in infrastructure and working with airlines to improve safety and service. They admit that turbulence is a challenge due to the airport’s location.
- Airlines focus on passenger safety, reminding everyone to use seat belts and using advanced turbulence detection systems.
- Aviation experts say turbulence is getting worse globally because of climate change and shifting jet streams, with the Rockies region especially affected.
How to Choose the Best Route for You
When deciding which Denver-linked route to take, consider your comfort with turbulence, travel needs, and schedule. If you are sensitive to turbulence, try to book flights at times when the air is usually calmer, such as early morning. Choose seats over the wings for a smoother ride, and always follow crew instructions. If you need more information, check official resources like Denver International Airport’s website for real-time updates and Turbli’s website for turbulence forecasts.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Denver International Airport remains the epicenter of turbulence in North American air travel. The Albuquerque to Denver route is the bumpiest, but several other Denver-linked routes also rank among the nation’s roughest. While airlines and airport officials are working to improve safety and expand service, the unique geography of the region means turbulence will remain a part of flying to and from Denver. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, travelers can reduce their risk by staying informed, following safety advice, and using tools like Turbli to plan their trips. For the latest safety guidelines and travel tips, visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s official site.
By understanding the causes of turbulence and knowing what to expect, travelers can make better choices and feel more confident when flying through Denver International Airport. Whether you’re flying from Albuquerque to Denver or taking another route, preparation and awareness are key to a safer, smoother journey.
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