When driving in a car or by train you measure your speed in either miles per hour (MPH) or kilometers per hour (KPH). When traveling by plane, the speed at which you measure is a bit different, pilots use Knots True Airspeed (KTAS).
What is a Knot?
Also known as a nautical mile, knots are measurements that planes and ships use to measure speed. One Knot per hour equals 1.15 miles per hour. The reason for using a different method of measurement is because both boats and planes measure distance using latitude and longitude. To place it in a different perspective, one Knot is one minute, of an arc, on any line of longitude.
One Knot is equal to:
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- 1 Nautical Mile per hour
- 1.852 Kilometers per hour
- 0.514 Meters per second
- ~1.1507 Miles per hour
Why Are They Called Knots or KTAS?
Before any form of modern measurement was invented, sailors would drag ropes behind their ship. This rope had knots on it, and they used it to measure speed. Now, in modern times, knots are a uniform way for pilots and other industry professionals to have a standardized, as well as international, method of measuring airspeed and travel.
Learn More: Why Do Private Jet Charter Flights Avoid the Sea
KTAS vs IAS
Knots True Airspeed (KTAS) is different than indicated airspeed. KTAS does not take pressure into account. Indicated airspeed (IAS) measures speed along with changes in pressure. Consider KTAS as the speed a plane would be going on the ground, while IAS offers a more accurate measurement in the air. Although KTAS and IAS can be comparable at low altitudes, as the plane rises, IAS is the best measurement to use.
How Does Airspeed Change With an Increase in Altitude?
Typically, true airspeed increases 2% per 1,000 feet increase of altitude. Although this is a general rule, changes in temperature and pressure can allow for a different outcome.
Here are a few examples of indicated airspeed (IAS) versus knots true airspeed (KTAS):
- 6,700 feet at 125 IAS = 142 KTAS
- 9,000 feet at 125 IAS = 147 KTAS
- 10,300 feet at 125 IAS = 150 KTAS
- 15,000 feet at 125 IAS = 160 KTAS
- 24,000 feet at125 IAS = 187 KTAS
IAS Increases as Air Becomes Thinner
Essentially, as the air becomes thinner, the IAS increases. If there is no wind, then the faster your true airspeed becomes, the quicker you will reach your destination. Check out the Top Private Jet Airports in the USA and begin planning your next trip.
Why You Should Care About KTAS
Pilots use knots true airspeed to calculate flight plans as well as fuel costs. If you ever plan to fly on a private charter, this will factor into calculating your flight price. Also, for anyone suffering from flight anxiety, it can also help you to feel more comfortable when you fly. Rather than being unsure of how fast the flight is flying, you can feel more secure and in control. This is very helpful in anxiety reduction and can help you to avoid the use of anxiety medications. Learn more about Questions to Ask a Private Jet Company.
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At Bitlux we accommodate a wide range of travel itinerary, needs, and private jets to help you get safely to your destination on time and on schedule.
Reach out today to find out why so many discerning customers choose to book their private jet charters with Bitlux. We’d love to learn more about how we can tailor an experience to exceed your expectations.
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