Why flying east is faster than flying west
November 2, 2025
If you’ve ever noticed that your eastbound flight seems quicker than the westbound return, you’re not imagining things. The difference is very real, and it comes down to a fascinating mix of science, meteorology and strategic flight planning.
How does the Earth’s rotation affect flight times?
Earth spins from west to east at roughly 1,670 kilometres per hour (around 1,040mph) at the equator. While aircraft don’t receive a direct boost from this rotation, it has a profound effect on the movement of air above the surface.
These atmospheric currents, especially at high altitudes, create wind patterns that flight crews must consider when charting a course. Depending on the direction of travel, these winds can either help or resist a plane’s motion, influencing flight times.
Jet streams: nature’s high-speed conveyor belts
The primary reason eastbound flights tend to be faster is the influence of the jet stream. Jet streams are narrow bands of high-speed air flowing from west to east around the globe.
At cruising altitude, jet streams can reach speeds of more than 400 km/h (250mph). Eastbound flights often take advantage of these tailwinds, which can shave significant time off a journey while also reducing fuel consumption.
On the other hand, westbound flights can encounter strong headwinds, which slow down the aircraft relative to the ground. This effect explains why a flight from New York to London might take six to seven hours, while the return journey often stretches closer to seven or eight hours.
Airlines carefully study these patterns and adjust flight paths accordingly, optimising travel time while maintaining safety.
Aircraft speed vs. wind speed
Commercial jets generally cruise at speeds of up to 900 km/h (560mph). While impressive, the wind still makes a big difference.
A strong tailwind can act like a push from behind, helping the aircraft cover ground more quickly, whereas a headwind can feel like flying through a persistent resistance. For flight crew and planners, understanding and anticipating these winds is essential for keeping schedules on track and cutting fuel consumption.
Environmental and operational benefits
Using wind patterns to optimise flight routes isn’t just about speed. Airlines can significantly reduce fuel burn and carbon emissions by flying with tailwinds whenever they can.
This demonstrates how aerospace engineering and meteorology work together to enhance both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Passengers benefit from shorter flight times, while the industry reduces costs and its ecological footprint. Win-win.
The catch: jet lag is usually worse when travelling east
Travelling east often triggers stronger jet lag symptoms than heading west. The reason lies in how your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) reacts to time zone changes.
When you move eastward, you’re essentially forcing your body to fall asleep and wake up earlier than usual, which can be harder to adjust to than staying up later. Crossing more than three time zones can throw this rhythm off balance, leading to fatigue, insomnia and reduced alertness.
Interestingly, your natural sleep tendencies also play a role in the effects of flying on your body. Early risers may find eastbound flights slightly easier, while night owls often struggle more to reset their internal clock.
Simply down to science
Essentially, the combination of jet streams and the Earth’s rotation ensures that eastbound flights are often faster, while westbound flights may take a little longer. So next time your eastbound flight arrives ahead of schedule, remember: it’s not luck, but the result of precise planning and natural forces working in your favour.
Featured image: Adobe Stock
