Military, civilian aircraft ably share the skies

Q: Why is a military jet engine a lot louder than a commercial jet liner? — Craig, Lititz, Pa.

A: Military jets are pure turbojets, while airliners are fanjets. The fan produces lower- velocity air that acts as an insulator to the high- energy air produced by the core of the engine, thus dampening the noise. The noise from a jet is the shear of high- energy air against low- energy air.

Q: How do commercial airliners and military aircraft share the skies?

— James, Miami

A: Air- traffic control does a great job of keeping airplanes separated, be they commercial, private or military. In addition, the military branches have special airspace they can use for training and maneuvers.

Q: Is it easier to pilot a commercial airliner or military aircraft?

— Chris, Mesquite, Texas

A: Flying an airliner is very similar to flying military cargo airplanes. Tactical and fighter airplanes do an entirely different job so comparing them is difficult.

Q: What determines the ceiling of an aircraft?

— Allison Miller, Trevor, Wis.

A: The design of the airplane and engines determine the ceiling.

Q: The F- 111 aircraft proved effective during two Gulf wars, why was it retired?

— ADOC McBride Aviation Technician, Houston

A: The F- 111 technology was ahead of its time, but it was designed in the mid- 1960s. After the Gulf wars, the military planners determined other aircraft could meet the fleet’s strategic needs and the F- 111 was retired. .

Q: Did you ever have any jet fighters fly alongside of you just to say hi or even have a little fun?

— Chris, Japan

A: No, fighters do not “say hi” or have a little fun with airliners. Have a question about flying? Send it to travel@ usatoday. com.