For those who commonly journey by air, chances are you’ll discover that flights take much less time when touring East in the USA. You possibly can fly between the identical two cities on the West and East Coast. Flights to the East Coast, nevertheless, will usually take much less time than flights to the West Coast. Why does this occur precisely?
How the Jet Stream Impacts Flight Occasions
The rationale Eastward flights take much less time is due to the jet stream. Consisting of a high-altitude air present, the jet stream performs a significant position in flight occasions, particularly for lengthy routes.
The jet stream is positioned at an altitude of about 30,000 to 40,000 ft — the identical altitude at which business airliners fly. It consists of fast-moving air that strikes from West to East. It’s not unusual, in reality, for jet stream winds to achieve speeds of as much as 200 mph.
When airplanes journey from the West to the East, they’re flying in the identical route because the jet stream. Due to this fact, they’ll expertise much less drag. The jet stream will truly “push” airplanes Eastward, leading to shorter flight occasions. The alternative is true when flying from the East to the West. Airplanes flying on this route will probably be going towards the jet stream, leading to extra drag and longer flight occasions.
A International Phenomenon
The jet stream isn’t restricted to the USA; it’s a worldwide phenomenon. There are 4 major jet streams: one close to the North Pole, one close to the South Pole, and two close to the equator.
Whether or not you’re taking a flight in the USA, Europe or another nation, you’ll most likely encounter one among these jet streams. And since the air in jet streams strikes Eastward, it can have an effect on flight occasions.
How A lot Does the Jet Stream Have an effect on Flight Occasions
You is perhaps questioning simply how a lot of a distinction the jet stream has on flight occasions. A number of components have an effect on the jet stream’s affect on flight occasions, reminiscent of the placement of the jet stream, the altitude, climate and extra. With that stated, flight occasions between the USA and Europe can range by as much as 20% relying on whether or not the airplane is flying Eastward or Westward.
In Conclusion
It could sound unusual, however the route through which airplanes fly can have an effect on their flight occasions. Airplanes usually fly quicker when touring from the West to the East. It is because the jet stream — a present of fast-moving air — travels on this similar route.
