10/9 lax-atl-mad (dal 124/108)

[astrodeb]

Hi folks,

I am making a quick trip to Spain this week. I appreciate any input on expected aviation weather.

Many thanks,
Astrodeb

[B744drvr]

LAX-ATL should be smooth, weather at both airports will be fine as well.
At this time I'm not able to make a precise forecast of the ATL-MAD part of your journey because the relevant charts haven't been published yet, but expect at least light-moderate turbulence over the Atlantic pretty much all the way up to MAD. I'll be back later when I have the chart valid for your flight.

[astrodeb]

Many thanks, B744drvr! I'll check later to see the update and keep the seatbelt tight across the Atlantic .

Cheers,
Astrodeb

[B744drvr]

Yes, wise idea. First quarter of the Atlantic crossing probably some light turbulence, thereafter light-moderate and the last hour before landfall there can be some occasional severe turbulence. Weather in Madrid: some thunderstorms in the vicinity so it can be a bit bumpy there as well. So buckle up, try not to spill your glass of red wine all over yourself or your neighbour and you'll be fine!;-)

[B744drvr]

That was London's forecast by the way. Washington predicts moderate-severe turbulence the last 3 quarters of the Atlantic crossing. You'll probably have track Yankee which will take you a bit northerly, entering the northwest of Portugal. Southerly not an option because of our dear friend/cat 1 hurricane 'Otto', which hasn't dissipated yet..Equipment probably Boeing 767-300.

[astrodeb]

Surprisingly, Atlantic crossing never got more than light-mod. We started across south of Newfoundland and hit the NW Portugal coast at dawn. I think we diverted NE a bit at one point around some weather, but it sure was dark out there. Thunderstorms had dissipated around MAD at arrival, but ground fog made landing sporting. I think we were helped by great piloting, luck, and a less than full load so that 380 was possible by the time we encountered the CB set near the coast. Thanks again for your forecast! I am returning same route on Thursday, so I hope to hear from you folks again.

Cheers,
Astrodeb

[B744drvr]

Mostly that's what happens when they forecast moderate-severe turbulence. I've hit severe turbulence several times when they forecasted smooth flight conditions.
Great you had a good flight. I'll be also somewhere across the Atlantic on Thursday so I might not have time to give you a forecast but I'll try to wave when we cross paths ;-)