An airplane's speed varies by type and phase of flight, but commercial airplanes typically cruise at speeds between about 880 to 926 km/h (547 to 575 mph). Takeoff speeds are much lower, usually around 240 to 290 km/h (150 to 180 mph), and maximum speeds can be higher but are generally limited for safety and fuel efficiency purposes. Military and experimental aircraft can fly significantly faster. The Concorde, a retired supersonic commercial aircraft, reached speeds of over 2,000 km/h (1,341 mph). Small general aviation planes fly much slower, often below 300 knots (345 mph). Here are some example speeds of common commercial airplanes at cruising:
- Boeing 737 MAX: ~840 km/h (521 mph)
- Airbus A320neo: ~830-840 km/h (518 mph)
- Boeing 747-8: ~900 km/h (564 mph)
- Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A380: ~900 km/h (562 mph)
The cruising speed balances fuel consumption, safety, and efficiency, while takeoff and landing speeds vary based on aircraft and conditions.
