Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 5 days ago

---

To the casual observer glancing at a flight tracking map, the path of a long-haul jet often looks like a bizarre, unnecessary curve that deviates significantly from a direct line. However, the straight line is frequently an illusion born of flat-map distortion or a secondary priority to atmospheric physics. So in this video, we take a look at why pilots sometimes intentionally avoid the shortest route, and how modern flight planning is actually a balance between physics, weather, safety, and efficiency rather than pure distance.

Want more Simple Flying YouTube videos? Our Long Haul channel goes more in-depth into aviation topics: youtube.com/c/LongHaulbySimpleFlying

Website
simpleflying.com

Flight Tracker
simpleflying.com/flight-tracker

instagram.com/simpleflyingnews
facebook.com/simpleflyingnews
linkedin.com/company/simple-flying
tiktok.com/@simpleflying
Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/55uPzHwM524LreH1r8DLb4
Threads: simpleflying.com/threads

For copyright matters relating to this page, please contact us directly at: legal@valnetinc.com

Advertise With Simple Flying. Reach millions of aviation enthusiasts, frequent flyers, and industry professionals worldwide. Learn more about partnering with us: valnetinc.com/en/simpleflying




#aviation #flying #aircraft #simpleflying #longhaul #planes #airport #avgeek #travel #airline #air #pilot