Why do planes fly at 40000 ft?

1. Many flights are not as full as they were, so they are lighter and can fly at higher altitudes, which are more fuel-efficient. Most airliners have maximum certified altitudes of 39,000 to 41,000 feet; a few can go higher but usually do not. Many business jets can fly higher, routinely cruising in the high 40,000s.

Why do airplanes fly so high in the sky would it not be more efficient to have them fly lower and expend less fuel to reach a higher altitude?

The higher the better One of the central reasons behind aircraft altitude is that, as the air gets thinner with every foot climbed, planes can travel more easily and therefore move faster and burn less fuel, saving money.

How high can a plane fly above sea level?

It is about 5 miles to 8 miles above from sea level. A commercial plane can fly higher than this altitude, but that can raise safety issues. As a higher plane cruise, it would take a long time to come back in a safe altitude in any emergency.

What is the average cruising altitude of a plane?

However, travelers are more likely find themselves in the air at a cruising altitude of around 35,000 feet. Pilots often choose to fly at this level because this is the optimum height for commercial operations.

Why do airplanes fly so high?

Flying so high also means that aircraft are able to avoid other airborne traffic, such as light aircraft or helicopters, which fly lower, as well as insects and birds. Light aircraft do not have pressurised cabins, therefore stick below 10,000 feet. Any higher and the pilot is required to don an oxygen mask to keep conscious.

Why do pilots fly at 35000 feet?

Pilots often choose to fly at this level because this is the optimum height for commercial operations. Carriers avoid a massive amount of turbulence that would occur at lower levels. Along with this, most thunderstorms, severe weather incidents and birds can be avoided while above 35,000 feet.