Quote:
Originally Posted by 4X4
I love the map too. And the speed display. But I've been meaning to ask some of you aviation buffs why they increase speed as the flight progresses. I hope the answer is not because they are maxed out, but that the gradual decrease in weight from fuel consumption contributes to the increase in speed.
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Well maxed out is a relative term. In high altitude operations the throttles are likely set to MCT (Maximum Continuous Thrust) while cruising. MCT is not max power, all modern commercial jets in level flight can accelerate into an over speed condition (faster than the airframe is designed/certified to travel). MCT is the highest throttle setting for continuous operation.
The airspeed trends up due to a constant power setting (certainly not balls to the wall) and a decreased payload as fuel is consumed. The aircraft like your car is more efficient when not heavily loaded with fuel.