Why do planes fly at high altitude even across the oceans, when flying at lower altitudes require covering a shorter distance?

Question

Why do planes fly at high altitude even across the oceans, when flying at lower altitudes require covering a shorter distance?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

I’d fucking love it if an airline just said fuck it and did 500ft above MSA for the entire flight. Make me appreciate the speed from my window seat. Scare the shit out of ground wankers.