Mach Number Explained: What It Is and Why Pilots Use It
Pilot Institute
JULY 11, 2025
Why do jet pilots talk about speed in terms of Mach number? Jet aircraft often fly at speeds close to the speed of sound. That’s the speed your airspeed indicator shows based on ram air pressure in the pitot tube. For most aircraft with highly cambered wings or thick profiles, airflow accelerates over the top of the wing.
Let's personalize your content