However these were all subsonic aircraft, and it was felt they would have insufficient performance to effectively intercept high-speed jet bombers known to be under development in the Soviet Union.
22.
Theoretical ideal fineness ratios in subsonic aircraft are typically found at about 6 : 1, however this may be compromised by other design considerations such as seating or freight size requirements.
23.
Turboprop engines are generally used on small subsonic aircraft, but the Tupolev Tu-114 can reach 470 civil aircraft, such as the Lockheed L-188 Electra and the Tupolev Tu-95, have also used turboprop power.
24.
"Our customers have told us in no uncertain terms that they are only interested in a subsonic aircraft if the time savings can by justified in relation to operating cost, " said Airbus's Greczyn.
25.
"If you're laying people off and telling people in your business to tighten your belt, senior executives then find it inconsistent to go to the airport and get on Concorde rather than subsonic aircraft ."
26.
British Airways says its seven Concordes get up to 57 hours of maintenance for every hour in the air, far more than what is accorded subsonic aircraft . Fuel consumption, too, makes them expensive to run.
27.
Additionally, the large frontal area taken up by the low-pressure fan at the front of the engine increases drag, especially at supersonic speeds, and means the bypass ratios are much more limited than on subsonic aircraft.
28.
Engine failure causes problems on conventional subsonic aircraft; not only does the aircraft lose thrust on that side but the engine creates drag, causing the aircraft to yaw and bank in the direction of the failed engine.
29.
This suggested the use of thinner airfoils with much longer chord than designers would have used on subsonic aircraft . These designs were impractical because they left little internal room in the wing for armament or fuel.
30.
"If you're laying people off and telling people in your business to tighten your belt, senior executives then find it inconsistent to go to the airport and get on Concorde rather than subsonic aircraft, " he said.
