What is east to west altitude rule?


What is east to west altitude rule? The standard rule defines an East/West track split: Eastbound – Magnetic track 000 to 179° – odd thousands (FL 250, 270, etc.) Westbound – Magnetic track 180 to 359° – even thousands (FL 260, 280, etc.)


Why do planes fly slower east to west?

It takes longer to fly west compared to east because of a very strong high-speed current of wind called jet stream. It normally blows above 20,000 feet of altitude and its direction is west to east. It is a few hundred feet thick and can exceed the speeds of up to 400 km/h.


Is turbulence worse flying east or west?

When flying east to west, there is more turbulence. The jet streams blow against the airplane which results in strong headwinds blowing against the turbines, creating turbulence. Jet streams are high-altitude air currents caused by Earth's rotation and atmospheric heating.


What is the 1 in 60 rule for altitude?

The 1 in 60 rule states that if you're off course by 1NM after 60 miles flown, you have a 1-degree tracking error. Time to correct that heading! Another tip: If you're 60 miles away from a VOR, and you're off course by one degree, you're off course by one mile.


What is the altitude rule for flying west?

Any aircraft flying a heading of west - whether South, Southwest, West, or Northwest (180 degrees through 359 degrees) - must be at an even altitude (4000', 8000', 16000, etc.).