Yliäänilennot

Yliäänilennot refers to flight at speeds exceeding Mach 1, the speed of sound. The speed of sound varies depending on atmospheric conditions, primarily temperature and altitude, but is approximately 343 meters per second (767 miles per hour) at sea level in dry air at 20 degrees Celsius. Achieving supersonic flight requires aircraft to generate enough thrust to overcome the significant increase in drag and other aerodynamic challenges that arise as the aircraft approaches and exceeds the speed of sound.

The transition from subsonic to supersonic speeds, known as the transonic regime, is particularly complex. At these speeds, shock waves begin to form on the aircraft's surfaces, leading to a sudden increase in drag and a potential loss of control. Aircraft designed for supersonic flight often feature swept wings, sharp leading edges, and powerful engines to manage these effects.

Supersonic flight has been utilized in both military and civilian aviation. Military aircraft, such as fighter jets, commonly operate at supersonic speeds for tactical advantage. In civilian aviation, the Concorde was a notable example of a supersonic passenger jet, capable of crossing the Atlantic in under four hours. However, challenges related to fuel efficiency, sonic booms, and operational costs ultimately led to the retirement of Concorde. Research continues into developing more efficient and environmentally friendly supersonic transport.