What Is the World's Fastest Plane? Top 10 Fastest Jets Revealed

What is the world’s fastest plane? That’s the NASA X-43, an unmanned aircraft that holds the record for the fastest jet aircraft at Mach 9.6 (7,366 mph) on November 16, 2004. In this article we will look at other super-fast jets, manned and unmanned, and how they achieved their speed.

The X-43's scramjet is a type of air-breathing engine that significantly contributes to its remarkable speed.

Defining Speed in Aviation

Speed is a crucial measure of an aircraft’s performance in aviation, gauged in knots and Mach numbers, which reflect speed relative to sound.

Mach 1 is the threshold for supersonic travel, marking a significant milestone in aeronautics.

In military aviation, achieving high speeds is vital for air forces to engage or evade enemy combatants efficiently. For commercial air travel, faster speeds mean shorter trips and increased productivity, making maximum speed a key factor in aircraft design.

Supersonic speeds, beyond Mach 1, and hypersonic speeds, exceeding Mach 5, represent cutting-edge advancements in aerial transportation and defense strategies. These high-speed capabilities are crucial for air forces to maintain air superiority, highlighting significant progress in aviation technology.

Breaking the sound barrier and reaching hypersonic speeds are groundbreaking achievements in aerospace engineering, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in flight technology.

These advancements open new opportunities for developing industry-specific technologies, paving the way for future innovations in high-speed aviation.

Understanding and achieving these elevated speeds underscore the remarkable progress in aeronautics, driving the evolution of fast, efficient, and advanced aircraft.

How Fast is Fast?

How fast do planes go? Speed in aviation is a many splendoured thing and can be measured in many ways. When talking about aircraft, speed is usually measured in Mach numbers which is the ratio of the aircraft’s speed to the speed of sound.

At sea level the speed of sound is about 768 mph or 1,236 km/h. But as you go up the speed of sound decreases due to changes in air temperature and pressure.

In aviation “fast” can mean many things. A small propeller-driven aircraft might cruise at 150-200 mph (240-320 km/h), a commercial flight speed of 900 mph (1,450 km/h) for a typical airliner, and a military jet at over 2,000 mph (3,200 km/h).

Experimental aircraft that push the boundaries of technology have gone over 7,000 mph (11,300 km/h).

Knowing these different speed ranges helps you appreciate the technology and capabilities of different types of aircraft.

How Airspeed is Measured

Airspeed is critical to safe and efficient flying. There are several ways to measure airspeed, pitot tubes, static ports and radar systems.

Pitot tubes are small tubes that face forward and measure the dynamic pressure of the air flowing past the aircraft.

The dynamic pressure plus the static pressure measured by the static ports allows the airspeed to be calculated. Static ports measure the pressure of the air at rest, the baseline for accurate airspeed measurement.

Radar systems, especially in military use, use radio waves to detect and track aircraft. They can give you speed and position of the aircraft, to maintain air supremacy and do complex flying.

Mach vs. Knots

In aviation, airspeed is commonly measured in Mach numbers and knots. Mach is a dimensionless unit representing the ratio of an aircraft’s speed to the speed of sound. For example, an aircraft flying at Mach 1 is traveling at the speed of sound, while an aircraft at Mach 2 is traveling at twice the speed of sound.

Knots, another common unit, measure airspeed in nautical miles per hour. One knot is equivalent to 1.15 mph (1.85 km/h). Knots are widely used in commercial and general aviation to standardize airspeed measurements across different types of aircraft.

The Fastest Unmanned Aircraft: NASA X-43

The NASA X-43 is the fastest unmanned aircraft, it reached Mach 9.6 on November 16, 2004. That’s 7,366 mph. Big deal for the Hyper-X program and hypersonic flight.

At the heart of the X-43’s success is the scramjet engine, a supersonic combustion ramjet. Unlike traditional jet engines with many moving parts the scramjet is simpler and more efficient.

This design, using only high speed for air compression, allows the X-43 to reach Mach 9.6. This is the future of supersonic and hypersonic flight.

The X-43’s performance in the atmosphere proves the value of NASA’s test programs in advancing aviation technology. These are needed to explore new high speed frontiers and understand aerospace.

No mechanical parts in the X-43’s design. That’s how it set the record. That’s how we’ll design high speed aircraft. NASA’s X-43 shows we’re still pushing the boundaries of flight technology.

The results of this program are still being felt in military and commercial aviation. In short, the NASA X-43 is a big deal. Hypersonic flight. Future high speed aerospace.

The Fastest Manned Aircraft: North American X-15

The North American X-15 is the fastest manned aircraft in history with a speed of Mach 6.72 or 4,520 mph, achieving one of the highest top speeds for manned aircraft.

This was achieved with its rocket engine to explore hypersonic flight and get data for future spacecraft. The X-15 program ran from 1959 to 1968 and did 199 flights and advanced our knowledge of high speed aerodynamics and thermal management.

One of the program’s cool feats was it went above 350,000 feet, the highest altitude in high altitude aviation.

The aircraft was dropped from a B-52 bomber at 45,000 feet and then launched mid air, a unique way to conserve fuel and get to speeds and altitudes never before achieved.

These missions proved out the concepts that led to the development of advanced aerospace tech and cemented the X-15’s place in the history books.

The X-15 showed that sustained flight at high speed was not only possible but practical for experimental aircraft.

This was humanity’s push to go beyond and achieve new heights in aerospace. It was proof of concept for many principles that still apply today.

Today the X-15 legacy inspires aerospace innovators and engineers. Its hypersonic travel principles are the foundation for current and future high speed flight. The X-15 showed us what’s possible. We can do anything.

In short the North American X-15 was a giant leap for aviation and showed us what it takes to go beyond. Hypersonic flight and high altitude exploration is a reminder of what we can do when we experiment and innovate.

Record-Breaking Production Jets

Production jets have been crucial in advancing aviation speed. Some of these jets were specifically designed for operations from aircraft carriers.

The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird and the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat stand out as record-breaking aircraft, showcasing their technological capabilities and setting benchmarks for future aeronautical engineering developments.

Their impressive speeds and designs continue to influence modern fighter jets and inspire new generations of aircraft engineers.

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird

The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird with a top speed of Mach 3.3 (2,532 mph) is one of the fastest jets ever built and is often the fastest jet. Built for Cold War reconnaissance missions, its speed and high altitude allowed it to gather intel over enemy territory with impunity.

Stealth was built into the SR-71, with chines having sharp, angled surfaces to reduce its radar cross section and avoid detection. Flying up to 85,000 feet, the Blackbird was above most enemy defenses.

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney J58-P4 engines, it could fly fast for a long time, 2,900 miles without refueling.

The SR-71 was an engineering marvel, mostly made of titanium to withstand the heat at high speed. This material and its design made the SR-71 a high speed machine.

The Blackbird’s legacy still influences modern aircraft design and is aeronautical excellence.

Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat

Built during the Cold War the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 Foxbat is a speed demon with a top speed of Mach 3.2 (2,190 mph).

Designed for interception and reconnaissance the Foxbat could climb to 80,000 feet. Its speed and altitude made it a formidable opponent in air to air combat against Western fighter jets.

With Tumansky R-15B-300 turbojet engines the MiG-25 is one of the heaviest and fastest fighter jets ever built. Over 1,100 were produced during its production run.

Today it’s not deployed much. The Foxbat had a big impact on aviation it helped shape the design of future high speed aircraft and showed what jet engine technology could do in terms of top speed.

Convair XB-70 Valkyrie

The Convair XB-70 Valkyrie was a groundbreaking high-speed, high-altitude bomber developed during the Cold War era. Designed to fly at speeds of up to Mach 3 (approximately 2,000 mph or 3,200 km/h) and altitudes reaching 70,000 feet (21,300 meters), the XB-70 was an engineering marvel of its time.

Powered by six General Electric Y93 turbojet engines, the XB-70 could generate a combined thrust of 30,000 pounds, enabling it to achieve its impressive speed and altitude.

The aircraft’s large size, with a length of 185 feet (56 meters) and a wingspan of 105 feet (32 meters), allowed it to carry a substantial payload over long distances, with a range exceeding 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers).

Despite its advanced capabilities, the XB-70 program was ultimately canceled due to the advent of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and the escalating costs associated with its development. Nevertheless, the XB-70 remains a significant milestone in the history of high-speed aviation.

Advanced Fighter Jets Breaking Speed Barriers

Technological enhancements have propelled the capabilities of modern fighter jets, particularly in achieving remarkable velocities.

Although advanced long-range missiles have lessened the reliance on sheer velocity, possessing high speeds continues to provide a pivotal edge during aerial battles.

The contemporary generation of fighter jets exhibits characteristics such as:

• increased speed

• greater agility

• low observability (stealth)

• outfitted with sophisticated radar and missile technologies

As aviation technology advances, so does the development of these combat aircraft. From the F-22’s supercruise feature to the Eurofighter Typhoon’s nimbleness, these fighters shine in diverse tactical scenarios.

They are not only designed for air superiority but are also proficient in conducting ground attack missions, showcasing their versatility in various combat roles.

They epitomize cutting-edge aerodynamic design by blending swiftness with state-of-the-art tech for air dominance.

F-15 Eagle

The F-15 Eagle can go Mach 2.5 which is 1,650 mph. As an air superiority fighter the F-15 has proven itself in many combat situations where it has excelled in air-to-air. With powerful jet engines and state of the art avionics it’s a force to be reckoned with in modern air combat.

Part of the F-15 design is its incredible agility and acceleration which allows dominance in close quarters dogfighting and effective intercepts against enemy aircraft.

It can operate up to 65,000 feet (19,812 meters) which gives it high ground against the enemy.

Because of its track record as an air superiority fighter it will shape the design of future fighter jets. The experience of flying such advanced machines will continue to influence the direction of aerospace technology.

Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker

The Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker, which is capable of achieving a top speed of Mach 2.35 (equivalent to 1,553 miles per hour), stands out as another high-speed fighter jet demonstrating notable performance.

The aerodynamic configuration of the Su-27 allows it to execute intricate air maneuvers such as the Cobra maneuver with ease, thus highlighting its superior agility during combat situations.

Equipped with two Saturn AL-31F afterburning turbofan engines, this aircraft excels in high-speed flight and delivers consistent operational capabilities across diverse combat conditions.

Its pivotal role in shaping the Russian Air Force’s fleet and influencing subsequent designs has established the Sukhoi Su 27 Flanker as one among the premier class of global military aviation assets.

Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum

The Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum is a versatile, lightweight multirole fighter aircraft developed by Mikoyan in the late 20th century.

Equipped with two Klimov RD-33 turbofan engines, the MiG-29 boasts a combined thrust of 18,000 pounds, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of over Mach 2 (approximately 1,500 mph or 2,400 km/h).

Renowned for its agility, the MiG-29 features a high angle of attack and a low stall speed, making it highly maneuverable in combat situations.

Its robust airframe and durable landing gear system further enhance its operational capabilities.

The MiG-29 has been adopted by numerous countries, including Russia, Ukraine, and India, and has seen action in various conflicts such as the Gulf War and the Yugoslav Wars.

Its impressive performance and adaptability have cemented its status as one of the premier fighter jets in modern military aviation, with a maximum speed that continues to influence the design of future aircraft.

Experimental and Prototype Jets

Experimental jets test speed and new technology, they push the limits of aviation. These planes are testbeds for new designs, materials and propulsion systems, to gather data for future high speed aircraft.

One of the exciting prospects is hypersonic aircraft, that could reduce travel time to less than 2 hours for transcontinental flights.

Recent prototype jets show the progress being made towards hypersonic speeds. For example a Chinese company has developed a prototype jet for hypersonic travel, the global race for faster and more efficient air travel is on.

These experimental aircraft pave the way for the next generation of high-speed flight.

Bell X-2 Starbuster

The Bell X-2 Starbuster, an avant-garde experimental aircraft, achieved a remarkable top speed of Mach 3.196 back in 1956.

It was meticulously crafted with a bullet-like fuselage and angled wings to accommodate the demands of high-speed flight and expand the limits known at that time.

Its propulsion came from a rocket engine propelled by an alcohol and liquid oxygen mixture, resulting in exceptional performance capabilities.

Nevertheless, despite its trailblazing success, the Bell X-2 encountered significant control issues when reaching hypersonic speeds, which underscored the difficulties inherent in piloting during extremely fast flights.

These experiences yielded important lessons regarding aerodynamics at very high velocities and guided subsequent design principles for new experimental aircraft while enhancing our grasp of both aerodynamic behavior and advanced propulsion techniques.

Boeing X-51 Waverider

The X-51 Waverider, built by Boeing in partnership with the US Air Force, has flown at Mach 5.1. It was designed to advance hypersonic technology and set new standards for high speed.

The waverider shape uses the shock waves created during flight to reduce drag and maintain hypersonic speed.

At its core is the scramjet engine – a game changer in propulsion technology over traditional jet engines at these speeds. So it can fly at speeds not possible with traditional propulsion and will be a key part of future supersonic and hypersonic designs.

Not just technical achievement but a step change in air travel and military strategy. The X-51 is proof of how scramjet can change the game for high speed transport.

Notable Mentions in High-Speed Flight

Many high-speed jets other than record holders have played a big part in aviation history. The MiG-31 Foxhound with its high speed and advanced features is one such aircraft, so is the Concorde which is the only supersonic airliner to have flown commercial flights.

Even if these don’t hold top speed records, their legacy lives on through their impact on aviation progress and influence on high-speed flight technology.

MiG-31 Foxhound

With a top speed of Mach 2.83 the MiG-31 Foxhound is one of the fastest fighter jets in service. Its main role is to intercept both enemy aircraft and incoming missiles and therefore play a vital part in air superiority.

Its high speed is due to two Soloviev D-30F6 afterburning turbofan engines and its advanced radar and missile armament allows it to perform at high altitudes – making it the fastest fighter jet.

The MiG-31 first flew in 1975 with capabilities to detect targets at 200 miles and operational ceiling of 67,500 feet above ground level.

These are impressive features that makes it an essential part of military operations like those we see in Ukraine where it consistently proves itself to be a force to be reckoned with in modern aerial warfare.

Concorde

The Concorde is the only supersonic airliner to have ever flown on scheduled services.

It could go Mach 2.04, or 1,354mph. That’s a big time saver across the Atlantic and a unique experience for your clients.

First flight 1969, entered service 1976, retired 2003. Still flying. Sort of. Proof of what we can do and inspiration for what’s next. advanced

Hypersonic Aircraft

The implications for military and civilian air travel are huge. With the X-43’s success we have taken a giant leap forward in air breathing engines, and a path to space and super fast commercial flights.

This means shorter trips and more global connectivity.

As it stands the innovations from the NASA Hyper-X program are the foundation on which hypersonic aircraft will be built.

Looking ahead to what’s to come this will redefine velocity limits and performance big time, and make hypersonic flight a reality. And for the next 20 years.󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

Hypersonic Concepts

Aircraft that can fly hypersonic, above Mach 5, are the future of aviation. Military hypersonic vehicles can go above Mach 10, and that’s a big advantage.

For example the DARPA Hypersonic Test Vehicle 2 went Mach 20 in testing. That’s what’s possible with this tech. Concepts like the Global 8000 business jet are combining speed and efficiency, that means faster and better air travel for both defense and commercial.

Boom Supersonic Overture

The Boom Supersonic Overture is a big project to bring back supersonic passenger flights with a target speed of Mach 1.7. The idea is to make high speed travel more accessible and efficient, and shrink the time between major cities around the world.

With the return of supersonic travel there could be a big change in international travel dynamics by giving travelers around the world quicker and more convenient options.

As the Boom Overture gets closer to being operational, a new era of high speed commercial flight is coming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the SR-71 still the fastest?

Yes, the SR-71 still holds the records as the fastest jet-propelled aircraft and the fastest air-breathing manned aircraft to date. Its records have remained unbroken since 1976.

What is the #1 fastest plane in the world?

The #1 fastest plane in the world is NASA’s X-43, which achieved an incredible speed of Mach 9.6, roughly 11,854 km/h, thanks to its innovative scramjet design.