North American X-15A-2 – Mach 7
- Type: Experimental aircraft
- Speed: Mach 6.7 (approximately 4,520 mph or 7,274 km/h)
- Record Achieved: October 1967
- Purpose: High-speed and high-altitude research
- Engine: Rocket engine, specifically the XLR99, providing 57,000 pounds of thrust
- Materials: Made with heat-resistant alloys to withstand extreme temperatures
- Notable Feature: Equipped with an external fuel tank to extend its flight duration and speed capability
- Achievements: Holds the record for the highest speed ever reached by a manned, powered aircraft.
The X-15A-2 was an experimental aircraft operated by NASA and the U.S. Air Force in the 1960s. With a top speed of Mach 6.7, the X-15 set numerous speed and altitude records for manned aircraft. It was a rocket-powered aircraft designed for research in hypersonic and spaceflight, contributing significantly to the understanding of high-speed flight and one of the 10 fastest planes in the world.
Top 10 Fastest Planes in the World 2024 (Ranked)
The world of aviation marvels, knowing the fastest planes that have ever soared through the skies. From military jets to experimental aircraft, these speed air crafts represent the aerodynamic engineering. Some can travel incredibly fast, much faster than the sound itself! This amazing technology allows people and cargo to travel across vast distances in a very short time.
We all love things that go fast, and aeroplanes are no exception! But how do we measure how speedy a plane really is? Here’s what we’ll be looking at to rank the top 10 fastest planes in the world. This is the plane’s absolute fastest flying speed, often measured in Mach (a unit comparing speed to the speed of sound) or kilometres per hour (km/h). Some planes are built for pure speed, while others prioritize things like passenger capacity or long-distance travel. We’ll consider if the plane is a military jet, a research aircraft, or something else entirely.
This article will explore the Top 10 fastest planes, ranking them by their incredible speed. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about how fast we can push the boundaries of flight, join us as we journey through the record-breaking speeds of the world’s quickest aircraft. From NASA X- 43A to Eurofighter Typhoon, we have covered all.
We’re looking for the fastest planes that can truly break the sound barrier and become supersonic machines: