This paper describes the calculation of a new value for sound speed (c0=331.29 m s−1) in standard dry air at 0 °C and at a barometric pressure of 101.325 kPa. The maximum uncertainty is estimated to be approximately 200 ppm. The theory of the calculation is based on the equation of state, and includes the knowledge of γ/Mwhich is derived from published theoretical and experimental thermodynamic data on the constituents of the standard atmosphere. Investigations which led to the general acceptance of the previous sound speed are examined, and there is good evidence to conclude that, in previous sound speed assessments, the maximum possible uncertainties were sufficient to encompass the above new sound speed. The variation of sound speed with carbon dioxide concentration and temperature is also discussed.