Aviation

Commercial Flight Surpasses Sound Barrier Over the Atlantic

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In a rare and remarkable event, a routine commercial flight from Washington to London found itself unexpectedly propelled to speeds exceeding that of sound as it traversed the Atlantic.

According to reports from the US National Weather Service, this astonishing occurrence was attributed to a potent jet stream surging through the upper atmosphere. The flight, operated by Virgin Atlantic, was one of three aircraft affected by the exceptionally strong upper-level winds recorded by the National Weather Service.

This evening's weather balloon launch detected the 2nd strongest upper-level wind recorded in local history going back to the mid 20th century! Around 34,000-35,000 ft, winds peaked around 230 kt (265 mph!). For those flying eastbound in this jet, there will be quite a tail wind. pic.twitter.com/0MXK0HvsCV— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) February 18, 2024

Reaching speeds of nearly 1300 kilometers per hour (800 miles per hour), the Virgin Atlantic jet, along with another flight from Newark to Lisbon, experienced velocities typically associated with supersonic travel. With wind gusts peaking at around 230 knots (approximately 265 mph) at altitudes of 34,000 to 35,000 feet, the stage was set for an extraordinary journey across the Atlantic.

Remarkably, this unexpected boost from the jet stream propelled the Virgin Atlantic jet to a velocity of 802 miles per hour, significantly surpassing its typical cruising speed. The Boeing 787 aircraft, renowned for its reliable performance, usually maintains speeds around 600 miles per hour. However, the fortuitous assistance from the atmospheric phenomenon expedited the flight’s journey, enabling it to arrive in London approximately 45 minutes ahead of schedule.

Despite reaching velocities typically associated with breaking the sound barrier, the aircraft did not breach this iconic threshold. This was due to the crucial distinction that they were not traveling faster than the speed of sound relative to the air enveloping them within the jet stream.

This technicality, however, did little to diminish the astonishment and excitement among passengers and aviation enthusiasts alike. While passengers aboard these flights may not have experienced the sonic boom or the historic feat of surpassing Mach 1, they were treated to an unexpectedly swift journey.

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Aviation

Egypt has signed an agreement with China to purchase J-10C fighter jets

Egypt has become the second country, after Pakistan, to order China’s Chengdu J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” fighter jets, marking a significant shift in its military strategy.

The announcement, made during the inaugural Egypt International Air Show from September 3 to 5 at El Alamein International Airport, reveals Egypt’s intent to replace its aging fleet of U.S. F-16s.

The J-10C, a highly capable 4.5-generation multi-role fighter jet, was showcased by China for the first time on African soil during the air show. It features advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry, making it a formidable alternative to Egypt’s current fleet.

Known for its air superiority missions, the J-10C has often been compared to the American F-16, which has been the backbone of the Egyptian Air Force since the 1980s.

However, with Egypt’s F-16s now considered outdated against modern air defense systems, the decision to transition to the Chinese fighters underscores a major upgrade in Egypt’s combat capabilities.

This move not only signals Egypt’s intent to reduce its reliance on U.S. defense systems but also reflects a broader shift in its international alliances.

Despite a long-standing defense relationship with the U.S., evidenced by a recent acquisition of C-130J Hercules transport aircraft through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, Egypt is clearly looking eastward.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over U.S. policies in the Middle East, including its stance on Israeli operations in Gaza, which may have influenced Cairo’s pivot to Chinese military technology.

China’s increasing presence in the Middle East and North Africa is bolstered by such deals, as Beijing continues to expand its influence through military cooperation and economic partnerships, particularly in energy imports.

The Egypt International Air Show provided a platform for showcasing this growing military-industrial relationship.