What happens to the air temperature as an aircraft ascends above 37,000 feet?

As an aircraft ascends above 37,000 feet, the air temperature behaves in a specific manner related to the atmospheric layers. Typically, in the stratosphere, which begins around 33,000 feet to 39,000 feet and extends to about 160,000 feet, the temperature stabilizes and may even begin to rise slightly due to the absorption of ultraviolet radiation by the ozone layer.

Therefore, the air temperature remains relatively constant for several miles before it starts to increase as altitude continues to increase. This phenomenon is particularly significant when considering the overall behavior of the atmosphere at high altitudes, where different layers exhibit varying temperature characteristics. The steady temperature at these heights contrasts with the troposphere below, where temperatures usually decrease with altitude.

Understanding this temperature behavior is crucial for pilots and aircrew members, as it impacts aircraft performance and weather patterns encountered during flight.