Airplanes today can fly longer than their predecessors in the past. There are commercial jets, for instance, that can fly up to 9,000 nautical miles — sometimes even farther. The airplane with the longest range is the Airbus A350 XWB. This ultra-long-range jet can fly up to 9,7000 nautical miles. Below are some of the most influential factors that determine an airplane’s range.
Fuel Capacity
Not surprisingly, the airplane’s fuel capacity will affect its range. Airplanes with a high fuel capacity will typically have a longer range than those with a low fuel capacity. Long-range airplanes are designed with a high fuel capacity for this reason.
Fuel Efficiency
It’s not just the fuel capacity that determines the airplane’s range; fuel efficiency plays a key role in the airplane’s range as well. Fuel efficiency is a measurement of how well an airplane converts its fuel into thrust. If the airplane has excellent fuel efficiency, it will generate more thrust while consuming the same amount of fuel as an airplane with poor fuel efficiency. Therefore, the fuel-efficient airplane will have a longer range.
Payload
Another factor in range is the airplane’s payload. The payload of an airplane refers to the combined weight of all passengers, cargo and other items on board. As the collective weight of these items increases, the airplane’s range will decrease. A heavy payload will force the airplane to consume more fuel, resulting in a shorter range.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics will affect the airplane’s range. Airplanes are designed with aerodynamic properties. Their wings and fuselages, for example, are designed to minimize drag and maximize lift. But some airplanes feature a more aerodynamic design than others. Airplanes that produce less drag and more lift typically have a longer range than their counterparts.
Altitude
You might be surprised to learn that the altitude at which the airplane flies will affect its range. The air is thinner at high altitudes. This is why cabins are pressurized in commercial airplanes. The thin air at high altitudes, though, has a positive impact on range. Airplanes will be exposed to less drag when flying at high altitudes. Less drag translates into improved fuel efficiency and a longer range.
Weather
The weather can affect how far airplanes fly. Tailwings can have a positive impact on the airplane’s range. Headwinds, in comparison, can increase fuel consumption while subsequently reducing the airplane’s range. Severe storms can also reduce the airplane’s range, which is why commercial airlines will often try to plan their flights around such weather events.
