When Flying From East Coast To West Coast?

Question

Is there more turbulence?

I flew back and forth from each coast last summer, but I had taken sleeping pills when we flew from North Carolina to California so I can't remember. I'll be flying this route again in about 2 weeks and I'm trying to mentally prepare myself for this flight.

Also when traveling with kids (ages 2 & 7) can I take tylenol PM to fall asleep on the plane?

Answer 1

Not really, I went from DC to Los Angeles in March.  Theres only turbulence over the Rocky Mountains.

Answer 2

It just depends on the weather across the country - if you fly over lots of thunderstorms, you might have to deal with some turbulence.

For the sake of your fellow passengers and the kids you're traveling with, please don't take Tylenol PM to purposely put yourself to sleep - focus on keeping the kids entertained and calm.

Answer 3

it depends, it has nothing to do with where you are flying from/to...also why would you take Tylenol PM when you need to take care of your kids on the plane?

Answer 4

You are responsible for your children while on board.  Do not take anything that will incapacitate you, leaving your children to run free through out the aircraft, or leaving your stranger seat mate or the flight crew to care for them...AND you.  NO to the Tylenol PM.

Coast to coast, there isn't anymore turbulence going one direction than there is the opposite direction.  Turbulence is caused by a number of phenomenon, and  is present (often without warning) at all altitudes.  This is why airlines want you buckled in at all times while you are in your seat, even if the seatbelt sign is off.

While it might be more likely that you'd encounter turbulence over the Rockies, it's not always the case.  During the summer months, when the temps are high, the hot air rises and mixes with the cooler air, creating more turbulence than usual...those same conditions help to create thunderstorms, especially over the midwest down through Texas.