>Anyway, my point is that you may want to look at flying a bit further
than
great circle and plot a course to use the tradewinds more.  For that
kind of
route, you would sag south and as you cross the ridge, turn west.  



Ken,

I guess the question is what the shortest distance in air miles.  I'd
love to punch up Duat and get a wind based routing.  The other day I did
a SJC turn from DFW.  Heading west we went through El Paso.  Returning
we did the high road up through Coaldale and Wilson creek.  We had a
tail wind on both legs the Whole Way.  Point is my little GPS unit does
have an "Shortest Air Miles" pushtile.  

Although saving a 100 or more miles would be great, I would also give
some consideration to shipping activities under my planned route.

Keep us informed.

Larry Henney
360LH