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The Speed of a Plane: Facts in the Fast Lane

11/11/2023

Science

When soaring through the skies, have you ever wondered how fast an airplane travels? The speed varies depending on the type of aircraft. However, commercial jets are, arguably, the most commonly encountered by the average traveler. Let's take a deeper look into some specifics about airplane speeds that you might not know.

1. The Speed of Commercial Jets

Among the myriad types of aircraft, commercial jets are the most frequently encountered by travelers. They cruise at high altitudes and speeds to quickly reach their destinations. Typically, the cruising speed of these jets ranges from 540 to 560 miles per hour, letting you cover a vast distance in a surprisingly short time.

2. Breaking the Sound Barrier

Ever heard of supersonic flights? Supersonic speed is when something exceeds the speed of sound (768 miles per hour) in the atmosphere. Various experimental planes have achieved this feat, with the most well-known probably being the Concorde. Commercial use of supersonic jets has been limited, but they participate in dynamic testing and military applications.

3. Aircraft for Long Distance Travel

Long-haul flights demand exceptional speed and fuel efficiency. The Boeing 747-8, often used for such trips, can cruise at approximately 570 miles per hour. So, if you're flying coast to coast in the U.S., a distance of about 2,800 miles, your actual flight time would be roughly 5 to 6 hours (a little extra time is factored in for takeoff, reaching cruising altitude, and descent).

4. Speed Changes According to Altitude

It might interest you to learn that aircraft speed can change according to altitude. The higher an airplane flies, the thinner the air, which means less friction or air resistance. Having less drag means aircraft can fly faster, more efficiently, at higher altitudes—another reason why commercial flights usually cruise at altitudes of about 35,000 feet.

5. Velocity Depends on Aircraft Type

Did you know the speed of an airplane greatly depends upon its type and size? A Cessna, a small airplane typically used for training and personal use, cruises at a speed of only about 140 miles per hour. Meanwhile, fighter jets can reach a top speed of over 1,500 miles per hour, although they usually cruise at lower speeds.

Airplanes, with their varying speeds depending on type, altitude, and size, make travel time efficient and are necessary for our interconnected world. Next time you board a plane or spot one in the sky, take a moment to consider the amazing technology that allows us to traverse huge distances at such high speeds.

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