These are the commercial jet engines you see, like the Boeing 777, 747, Airbus A330 and A380s. Though there is a considerable reduction of the engine thrust, at these altitudes the lower drag associated with low air density means a more economical flight with a higher True Air Speed.
Crepitus in the knees may be caused by knee injuries such as meniscus tears. These are fairly common in people who play sports, jog, or run. A meniscus tear can cause crepitus as the joint moves. Chondromalacia patella is a dull ache behind the kneecap, usually caused by overuse or injury. There will be damage to the undersurface cartilage covering the kneecap.
There are also muscular causes. Tight hamstring and calf muscles put pressure on the knee, and weak quadriceps muscles can cause the patella to track out of alignment. Just the repetitive force of a normal running stride alone can be enough to provoke an attack of runner's knee.