If you've ever wondered why commercial aircraft fly at such high altitudes, you're in the right place. Flying above 10,000 meters, also known as cruising altitude, is standard practice in aviation, and there are several important reasons for this.

Join us on this journey to the heights to discover some curiosities about the world of aviation that will surprise you. At Air Horizont we are committed to creating unforgettable flight experiences.

Fuel efficiency and speed

One of the main reasons commercial aircraft fly at altitudes above 10,000 meters is to consume less fuel. At these altitudes, the lower air resistance allows aircraft engines to operate more efficiently.

Air resistance is significantly lower at 10,500 meters, which means the aircraft can travel faster without expending as much fuel. This not only reduces operating costs for airlines, but also has a positive impact on reducing emissions, making flights more sustainable.

Favorable atmospheric conditions

At altitudes above 10,000 meters,aircraft fly above most atmospheric disturbances, such as thunderstorms and severe turbulence, which are found in the lower layers of the atmosphere.

This more stable atmospheric layer provides a smoother and more comfortable flight for passengers and crew. In addition, flying at this altitude allows aircraft to avoid dense air traffic found at lower altitudes, improving flight safety and efficiency.

Safety and depressurization

Safety is one of the most important concerns in aviation. As aircraft climb, atmospheric oxygen decreases. For this reason, aircraft cabins are pressurized to maintain adequate oxygen levels for passengers and crew.

In the event of cabin depressurization, oxygen masks are automatically deployed to provide the necessary oxygen until the aircraft descends to a safe altitude.

Optimal motor performance

Aircraft engines are designed to operate optimally at cruising altitudes. At altitudes around 10,000 to 12,000 meters, engines find an ideal balance between temperature and air pressure, allowing efficient and reliable performance.

Flying higher, above 12,000 meters, would already compromise efficiency and safety, while flying lower would increase air resistance and fuel consumption.

Extreme altitudes and physical limits

The highest recorded altitude on the earth's surface is Mount Everest at 8,848 meters. Flying at altitudes below this could result in air traffic problems and adverse weather conditions. In addition, flying below 1,000 meters is not practical for commercial flights due to dense air resistance and increased fuel consumption.

Flying above 10,000 meters allows commercial aircraft to take advantage of lower air resistance, allowing them to travel faster and consume less fuel. These altitudes also provide more favorable and safer atmospheric conditions, as well as optimizing engine performance. So the next time you find yourself at 10,500 meters on a cruise flight, you'll know you're flying at an altitude that combines efficiency, safety and comfort, allowing your aircraft to glide smoothly to its destination.