What is the Jet Stream?

Like an invisible river in the sky, the jet stream is a corridor of high speed winds created by the combination of Earth’s rotation and differential heating between the poles and the equator. Normally found between 20,000 and 50,000 feet of altitude and running from west to east in the northern hemisphere, the jet stream has a significant impact on aircraft operations.

Often exceeding speeds of 100 mph, the jet stream can alter flight times considerably, and at times can cause turbulent conditions at altitude. For these reasons, pilots strive to maintain awareness of current and forecast upper level wind conditions in order to plan a more efficient and comfortable flight.

Can this affect your flight?

A head wind is the bane of a pilot. It can cost flight time and expend extra fuel. Staying clear of the jet stream and head winds can make for faster flights and better fuel consumption. On the other hand, a tail wind has the opposite effect, and if you can catch one, you can not only increase your speed, getting you more quickly to your destination, you will expend less fuel doing so, as the wind is aiding your flight instead of opposing it.

Normally, when flying from West to East you will have the advantage of the tail wind provided by the jet stream. Conversely, when flying from East to West avoiding the jet stream as much as practical will keep you from flying into a head wind that impedes your progress and expends more fuel. Many private jet aircraft can climb to 45,000 feet or higher on westbound flights to avoid the highest winds.

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