Is it faster to fly east or west around the world?

Eastbound Flights: The Speedy Route Around the World

When embarking on a global circumnavigation, the question arises: is it faster to fly eastbound or westbound? The answer lies in the fascinating aerodynamic quirk of prevailing jet streams.

Prevailing Jet Streams and Flight Velocity

Jet streams are high-altitude winds that flow in a generally west-to-east direction. These winds boost aircraft velocity when traveling westward to eastward, providing a significant speed advantage. Conversely, westbound flights face headwinds from these jet streams, slowing down their progress.

Duration Differences Due to Direction

As a result of the prevailing jet streams, eastbound flights typically experience a shorter duration compared to westbound flights. This speed difference is particularly noticeable on long-haul journeys. For example, an eastbound flight from New York City to Tokyo can take around 12-14 hours, while a westbound flight on the same route can last approximately 15-17 hours.

Factors Influencing Duration Variation

In addition to the prevailing jet streams, other factors can also influence the duration of a global circumnavigation. These include:

• Altitude: Higher altitudes offer thinner air, reducing drag and allowing aircraft to travel faster.
• Tailwinds and Headwinds: In addition to jet streams, other local wind patterns can provide tailwinds or headwinds, further influencing flight time.
• Type of Aircraft: Different aircraft have varying speeds and fuel efficiency, which can affect the duration of a flight.

Conclusion

Due to the prevailing jet streams, eastbound flights around the world typically enjoy a speed advantage, resulting in shorter journey durations. This aerodynamic quirk has a significant impact on the planning of long-haul flights, with airlines strategically choosing eastbound routes to reduce travel time and enhance passenger comfort.