Title: Why Do Planes Fly So High?
Headings: Why Do Airplanes Need To Fly So High?
Why Do Airplanes Need To Fly So High?
Air resistance and fuel efficiency
Cruising altitude: a sweet spot
Avoidance of weather-related events like thunderstorms
Clearing obstacles
Miracle on the Hudson
Safety cushion
What about private jets and helicopters?
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Content: A balance between operating costs and fuel efficiency is achieved somewhere around 35,000 feet, which is why commercial airplanes usually fly at that altitude. Commercial airplanes can climb to 42,000 feet, but going beyond that can be precarious, as the air starts to become too thin for optimum flight of the airplane. Also, oxygen starts to become scarce, making it difficult for fuel engine systems to work. Back in 2004, Pinnacle airline flight 3701 crashed as pilots became too ambitious and flew their aircraft at higher-than-recommended altitudes. After going past 41,000 feet, the pilots lost control of the plane and it crashed into the highway near Jefferson City. Crash of Pinnacle airline flight 3701 in 2004 (Photo Credit : Aeroprints/Wikimedia Commons)
Avoidance of weather-related events like thunderstorms
Another important reason why commercial airlines fly at 6.6 miles up is that, at that height, they get more ‘stable’ air and don’t usually have to worry about clouds or weather-related events (e.g., thunderstorms ). Although planes can still fly through clouds and storms, they experience a lot of turbulence when doing so. This can cause discomfort in the passengers and even create panic on the plane. Fortunately, pilots are trained to handle such situations and they are expected to report such occurrences to the air traffic control room for further aid and advisement.