Near-Record Winds Push Commercial Jets To Speed Of Sound, Creates Bumpy Ride
Portfolio Pulse from Aaron Bry
Near-record winds in the Northeast on Feb. 17 caused commercial jets to exceed 800 mph ground speed, surpassing the speed of sound. The National Weather Service Baltimore / Washington reported winds at 265 mph, the second-fastest ever recorded in the region. A Virgin Atlantic flight from D.C. to London significantly reduced its flight time due to the tailwind. Airlines like United Airlines (UAL), Delta Airlines (DAL), and Southwest Airlines (LUV) could also benefit from reduced flight times. A viral video claiming to show a flight affected by these winds was debunked as footage from a Russian flight.

February 21, 2024 | 3:39 pm
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Delta Airlines may experience shorter flight times due to extreme winds, possibly enhancing operational performance.
The wind conditions that allow for faster flight times could lead to cost savings and efficiency improvements for DAL, potentially benefiting its stock price in the short term.
CONFIDENCE 75
IMPORTANCE 60
RELEVANCE 80
POSITIVE IMPACT
Southwest Airlines might benefit from decreased flight times due to high winds, potentially improving efficiency.
Shorter flight times due to the wind conditions could result in operational cost savings for LUV, possibly having a positive impact on its stock in the short term.
CONFIDENCE 75
IMPORTANCE 60
RELEVANCE 80
POSITIVE IMPACT
United Airlines could see reduced flight times due to near-record winds, potentially improving operational efficiency.
Reduced flight times can lead to improved fuel efficiency and operational costs, potentially positively impacting UAL's stock in the short term.
CONFIDENCE 75
IMPORTANCE 60
RELEVANCE 80