Airplane Brainteaser

Case Prompt

Airplanes are taking off from JFK and LAX airports every hour on the hour continuously, flying identical New York-Los Angeles routes.

The flight takes five hours. You are leaving New York at 12:00 PM EST and flying to Los Angeles (because it’s sunny and the beaches are great).

How many airplanes flying the opposite route will you pass on the way there?

Case Study Overview

In this Kearney Brainteaser, you’re being asked a creative question meant to test both your analytical and creative thinking processes. Brainteasers are solved the same way you solve a Market Sizing question – by breaking down the solution into component parts.

In a Market Sizing question, there are 2 approaches you can take: either top-down or bottom-up. Which approach will help you best answer the question?

Make sure to follow the 4 steps for solving Market Sizing problems:

1. Structure your approach (at least 5 steps is ideal)
2. Make assumptions
3. Do the calculations
4. Get to an insight

Remember that there are more types of case study questions you will be asked in your interviews than Brainteasers / Market Sizing questions. Make sure you are prepared for each one!

Kearney Interview Tips

What does Kearney look for in its candidates? A high degree of comfort with numbers and an ability to problem-solve.

Your mental math must be sharp, and you need to be comfortable with problem-solving.

In this case, focus on coming away with 1 takeaway or area you can improve.

For out-loud practice with an expert, book a session with an ex-MBB interview coach.