This note presents the results of a preliminary investigation carried out in 1966 by Polhemus Associates, Inc., into the effects of atmospheric conditions and the operation of a supersonic transport aircraft. A further study is in progress using digital processing.

Section 2 shows the results of an analysis of performance data for the Concorde as published in the SUD/BAC Brochure on Performance and Operations. The basic performance data is developed and presented in a form which gives a direct indication of the sensitivity of the aircraft to temperature and/or weight variations.

Section 3 illustrates typical temperature and wind structures as they occurred in January 1963 over the route from Manila to Paris via Tokyo and Anchorage. The basic data on the atmospheric structures were developed originally by McGill University, Department of Meteorology. The data have been further developed to relate the atmospheric structures to the flight path of an S.S.T. during its climb and acceleration phase and general conclusions are drawn on die effects of specific occurrences on the performance of the aircraft.