Are you in a hurry? What's the rush? If you’re stuck on a plane with noisy kids for hours on end, you’ll definitely feel the need for speed. But which commercial airplane will get you to your destination the quickest?
Here, we take a look at the top speeds of planes worldwide, comparing their velocity and cost.
Buckle up, fasten your seatbelt, and hop on board the fastest aircraft in the sky.
10. Boeing 747-400 – 1056km/h (656mph)
Despite being in service for over 35 years, the iconic 747-400 earns a spot on this list. This version of the 747 was widely used by airlines for its impressive range and speed.
Unfortunately, this aging model is no longer being produced, with only one commercial plane still flying. The decline in use was hastened by reduced air travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
9. Boeing 777 – 1098km/h (683mph)
Boeing’s popular 777 has been in operation for nearly 30 years and continues to be a key player in the aviation industry.
This aircraft can accommodate over 500 passengers, impressive for a twin-jet aircraft. It can also reach speeds of Mach 0.89, or 1099km/h.
8. Airbus A380 –1098km/h (683mph)
The A380 stands as the world’s only full-length double-decker plane, capable of carrying over 800 passengers comfortably. It’s the largest passenger aircraft ever made, with a width equal to 32 double-decker buses. Despite its size, it can still reach speeds of Mach 0.89.
Over the past 16 years, the A380 has transported over 300 million passengers worldwide. Despite production ending, this aircraft’s speed and luxury ensure it will remain in operation for years to come.
7. Dassault Falcon 7X – 1111km/h (690mph)
The unassuming but swift Dassault Falcon 7X is a triple-engine business jet known for its speed, reaching over 1100km/h while carrying 16 passengers in luxury. Its unique trijet design sets it apart from other aircraft, enhancing fuel efficiency.
Dassault has a long history of manufacturing Falcon planes, with the even faster Falcon 10X on the horizon with a top speed of Mach 0.925.
6. Boeing 787 Dreamliner – 1111km/h (690mph)
Boeing’s renowned Dreamliner is known for its comfort and efficiency, but it also boasts impressive speed, reaching 1111km/h.
With over 1,000 planes in operation worldwide, the Dreamliner is a popular choice for long-haul flights.
5. Boeing 747-8i – 1136km/h (706mph)
Despite its aging platform, the 747-8i stands as the world’s fastest large commercial jet, capable of transporting nearly 500 passengers at speeds over 1130 km/h.
In a testament to its capabilities, two 747-8i planes are undergoing refurbishment for the U.S. Air Force, set to become Air Force One in 2024.
4. Gulfstream G700 – 1142.19km/h (709mph)
Gulfstream’s luxury private jet, the G700, is known for its incredible top speed, matching its hefty price tag of $80 million (£63 million).
With room for 19 passengers, a range of 13,000km, and the ability to fly above turbulent weather conditions, the G700 offers a smooth and luxurious travel experience.
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3. Cessna Citation X+ – 1154.538km/h (717mph)
An upgraded version of the Citation X, the Citation X+ offers a larger cabin and increased top speed. While it has a shorter range than competitors, it remains a popular choice despite production ending in 2018.
2. Bombardier Global 8000 – 1160km/h (721mph)
If you’ve ever envied Logan Roy’s jet-setting lifestyle on “Succession” but found traditional planes too slow, the Global 8000 is your solution. This aircraft can reach speeds of up to 1160km/h (Mach 0.94) while accommodating 19 passengers in luxury.
With a projected range exceeding 14,000km, the Global 8000 is set to replace the Global 7500 in 2025.
1. SpaceShipTwo “Unity” – 3704 km/h (2301.81 mph)
The world’s fastest plane available for passengers in 2023 will be a Virgin Galactic craft. In July 2021, six passengers on a rocket plane reached speeds of Mach 3 over New Mexico.
Unlike traditional planes, the VSS Unity is powered by a single rocket engine and requires a launch vehicle to reach operational height. Once launched, it can achieve speeds over 3,700km/h at an altitude of around 90km.
After two decades of development, commercial flights have begun, with tickets costing $400,000 for a 90-minute journey.
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
