Is it really faster to fly east than west: Scientists have an answer

By TravelWiseDec 27, 2023 18:41 PMNews
Share:
Is it really faster to fly east than west. Source: Shutterstock

Many people might think that the Earth's eastward rotation is the reason for faster eastward travel; it is not. As NASA's Robert Frost explained, the Earth's rotation has no direct relationship to flight speed. Just as you don't walk faster when you go from east to west, the direction has no effect on the speed of an airplane.

The Earth's rotation on its own axis may seem like an intuitive answer. And while it doesn't directly affect the airplane, the truth is to be found in its indirect effect on the weather. More precisely, the real answer relates to a geophysical phenomenon known as jet streams, Simply Flying writes.

Is it really faster to fly east than west: Scientists have an answer. Source: Simply Flying
Is it really faster to fly east than west: Scientists have an answer. Source: Simply Flying

Jet streams are formed by the heating of the atmosphere and the action of the Earth's Coriolis force. They can reach speeds of 80 to 140 miles per hour and significantly affect flight times.

While jet streams can reduce flight time and fuel burn, they also increase the risk of clean air turbulence. Studies show that due to global warming, clean air turbulence will increase, making flying through jet streams riskier in the future.

Top Articles

Top Things to Do in San Francisco Today | Explore the City

Nov 20, 2024 23:18 PM

Discover the Best Bars in San Francisco: Top Places to Grab a Drink

Nov 19, 2024 22:04 PM

Glass Beach: A Unique California Destination

Nov 18, 2024 16:30 PM

Discover the Best Independent Bookstores in Los Angeles

Nov 17, 2024 22:22 PM
More News

Finnair to Reopen Nagoya Route, Offering Distinctive Cultural Experiences for Travelers

Nov 22, 2024 00:38 AM

Exploring UK’s Royal Traditions: What Travelers Can Expect in Twenty Twenty-Five

Nov 21, 2024 22:37 PM

Digital and Human Solutions Aim to Transform U.S. Travel Experiences

Nov 21, 2024 20:36 PM

TAP Unveils Black FLYday Deals for Affordable 2025 Travel

Nov 21, 2024 18:35 PM

Frontier Airlines Expands U.S. and Caribbean Routes for Twenty Twenty-Five

Nov 21, 2024 16:34 PM

ABTA’s ‘Travel with Confidence’ Campaign Fuels Future Travel Inspiration

Nov 21, 2024 14:33 PM

Vietjet Launches Green Friday: Affordable and Eco-Friendly Travel Options

Nov 21, 2024 12:32 PM

Japan Airlines Introduces Limited Shochu Service for Business Class Travelers

Nov 21, 2024 10:31 AM

Britain’s 2025 Flower Shows and Gardens: A Haven for Travelers

Nov 21, 2024 08:39 AM

Top UK Getaways for a Christmas Travel Adventure

Nov 21, 2024 06:38 AM

Navigating the Nuances of Domestic First Class in the United States

Nov 21, 2024 05:36 AM

Delta Brings Shake Shack to In-Flight Dining, Elevating Travel Comfort

Nov 21, 2024 04:37 AM

Exploring Recent Airline Route Developments: Enhancing Global Connectivity

Nov 21, 2024 03:38 AM

AirAsia MOVE’s WEDNESDEALS: New Path to Affordable Regional Travel

Nov 21, 2024 02:36 AM

Delta Air Lines Introduces Shake Shack Burgers for First Class Passengers

Nov 21, 2024 01:33 AM

Amsterdam’s Transformation: A Model of Sustainability and Accessibility for Travelers

Nov 21, 2024 00:35 AM

San Antonio Airport Introduces AI-Powered Parking System

Nov 20, 2024 23:30 PM

Royal Caribbean Unveils Exciting New Cruise Itineraries for Upcoming Years

Nov 20, 2024 22:34 PM

Austria’s Christmas Markets: A Magical Holiday Experience from Vienna to Salzburg

Nov 20, 2024 20:33 PM

American Airlines Introduces System to Tackle Gate Crowd Chaos

Nov 20, 2024 19:35 PM

Barnsley’s Transformation: From Industrial Roots to a Vibrant Tourist Destination

Nov 20, 2024 18:32 PM

A Forgotten Arena Beneath London: The Roman Amphitheater Hidden for Centuries

Nov 20, 2024 17:35 PM

Notre-Dame Reopens: Paris Welcomes Visitors to Iconic Landmarks

Nov 20, 2024 16:31 PM

Snowstorm in the UK: Impact on Travel and Education

Nov 20, 2024 15:35 PM

Notre-Dame Cathedral: A Symbol of Resilience and Renewal

Nov 20, 2024 14:42 PM

Exploring Rome: A Journey Through Time and Culture

Nov 20, 2024 12:41 PM