410/430 - favorite altitudes for high perf jets?

[satpak77]

(turboprop guy with a question...)

I was playing around with Flightaware and observed that all the high-perf jets, such as Citation-X, G-IV/V, Global Express, are typically all flying at 410 or 430. I think one was at 450, and another at 380.

I checked all the cross-country flights which were 4 hours or more.

"Low 40's" seems to be where everybody is at. I know a few of the above jets are certified all the way to 510.

Can you jet guys shed some light on why you guys hang out at these altitudes?

Just trying to learn something new...

later

 

[FL420]

Just as long as they're not at 420, it's okay by me.

 

[Gorilla]

Generally, the higher you go, the greater your ability to overfly crummy weather. I think the rides at 410 (That's as high as the 737 can go) are generally better than the lower rides. Saves gas. One thing you don't get is your fastest ground speed. If you look at only ground speed, and ignore fuel burn and winds, most jets will get their best GS between FL 280 and 350.

Another big reason is getting direct routing; less chance of getting dikked with, or mach limited.

 

[TheGuat]

How come you never hear any RJs up there anymore?

 

[Alafly]

That's a low blow.............

 

[CA1900]

That's the Guat.

 

[KeroseneSnorter]

It's all about the fuel flow!

 

[CrimsonEclipse]

390

Keeps me above most weather, still have good performance, easy climb.

CE

 

[Rally]

How come you never hear any RJs up there anymore?

410, DUDE. Sorry

It could have happened to alot of us, LOW BLOW!!!!!!

 

[KeroseneSnorter]

410, DUDE. Sorry

It could have happened to alot of us, LOW BLOW!!!!!!

You mean it is common for RJ pilots to fly outside the performance envelope and then ignore the safety systems built into the aircraft to prevent high altitude stalls?

That is the only real way I can see that it "could have happened to a lot of us".