Meteorology of the Supersonic Transport at Cruise Altitude

Recent results of research into the structure and behavior of lower stratosphere are summarized, and observation on summer, winter, and tropical stratosphere conditions are discussed. Summer circulation which is easterly is more predictable and quite uniform in behavior as compared to energetic winter flow regime, dominated by westerly polar vorex. Specific meteorological factors such as atmospheric density, pressure, air turbulence, and atmospheric ozone play a part in the efficient operation of supersonic aircraft at cruising altitudes.