What is the goal of Long Range Cruise?

The goal of Long Range Cruise is to increase airspeed while only slightly sacrificing range. This operational technique optimizes the aircraft’s performance by balancing speed and efficiency during flight, allowing for a quicker arrival to the destination while still remaining fuel-efficient. By selecting a speed that is just slightly higher than that of maximum range cruise, pilots can benefit from a more effective transit speed, making Long Range Cruise ideal for scenarios where time is a consideration, but fuel efficiency is still a priority.

Understanding this strategy is essential for aircrews as it plays a critical role in mission planning, taking into account factors like weather, air traffic, and fuel availability while ensuring a safe and efficient flight profile.