answersLogoWhite

0

Because of the reduced air friction at higher altitudes, commercial jet airliners will usually fly as much as possible above 20,000 feet, up to a service ceiling around 40,000 feet.

In the US, airways (Flight Levels) are set up every 1000 feet by altitude above 20,000 feet, with the even 1000's for westbound flights and the odd 1000's for eastbound flights.

Eastbound flights will often utilize the "jet stream" that flows west-to-east across the central US, in order to reduce fuel consumption or increase their net ground velocity.

User Avatar

Wiki User

13y ago

What else can I help you with?