Aeroplanes
From the Wright brother's first powered flight in 1903 to cheap flights from today's budget airlines, aeroplanes (or airplanes if you're American or Canadian) have come a long way. The two World Wars both propelled aviation technology forwards, changing the way we fight. Aerospace companies like Boeing started building jet airliners after World War II and revolutionised the way we travel. The Lockheed SR71 Blackbird currently holds the official record for the fastest manned flight.
The top 10 fastest jets in the world 2025
Come and take a look at our gallery of the top ten fastest jets in the world. All while singing 'Highway to the danger zone'...
Could I really land a plane in an emergency?
Need to emergency land a plane? It just might be possible, even without training.
Is climate change making turbulence worse?
Hope you're stocking up on sickbags.
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The world's first battery-powered planes have landed. But how safe are they?
After a long wait, the world's first zero emissions aeroplanes are finally taxiing to reality. But are they the solution we need?
The key to getting over your fear of flying could be your bottom. A psychologist explains why
Simple, science-backed techniques can help you overcome your sky-high anxiety.
Here’s the bizarre way horses get to the Olympics
Team GB's equine athletes have their own special transport for Paris 2024.
Why turning a plane’s computer off and on again could save your life
Software, overflow and human errors all have the potential to cause serious problems.
What causes a sonic boom?
A sonic boom is a deep, thunder-like noise that can be felt as a sudden jolt or vibration, as well as heard. It's often described as sounding like a loud explosion or gunshot.
What would happen if you fell out of a commercial aircraft?
Thankfully, it's a rare occurrence.
Future cars: 9 designs that could revolutionise the vehicle industry
The vehicle industry rapidly improves every year, bringing about incredible new and exciting technology for cars.
Is 5G really a threat to airlines?
A number of airlines have cancelled flights to the US over safety concerns about the new mobile network.
In pictures: X-59 QueSST, the supersonic aircraft that doesn't go boom
Could NASA bring back faster-than-sound travel?
Rolls-Royce claims its all-electric plane is the fastest ever made
The new aircraft, Spirit Of Innovation, clocked a top speed of 623km/h (387.4mph). Could it help us reach 'jet zero'?
X-59 QueSST: The quiet supersonic aeroplane that could revolutionise air travel
Aircraft that break the sound barrier are banned over many countries – but could quiet supersonic technology bring them back?
The new age of the airship: Could blimps be the future of air travel?
Sleek, green and coming to the skies above you.
How does the ‘Vomit Comet’ work?
Asked by: Hayley Paterson, Bournemouth
In pictures | Aerospace start-up unveils first-ever independently developed supersonic jet
The company aims to bring back commercial supersonic flight by 2025.
Owl’s flight through gusty winds could inspire new aircraft designs
A new understanding of how birds' wings change in turbulent flying conditions has implications for the future of aircraft, say researchers.
Airbus reveals zero-emission hydrogen plane concepts
The European plane-maker claimed the hydrogen-fuelled aircraft could enter service by 2035.
Lockheed Martin F-35 Lighting II | The fighter jet that flies itself (almost)
With Top Gun: Maverick due to hit cinemas later this year, we went behind the scenes at RAF Marham to get up close to the new F-35, the first fighter jet that does (most of) the flying for you.
Why can’t we fly planes into space?
Asked by: Dennis Robertson, Sheffield
Is it possible to fly around the equator non-stop and stay in daylight?
Theoretically it is possible but even a supersonic jet would be hindered by factors such as speed restrictions and in-flight refuelling.
Is there any point turning my phone to ‘flight mode’ on a plane?
Desperate to check your phone in the air? Think again, radio emissions are thought to impact equipment used on board.
Star Trek-inspired aeroplane powered by ‘ionic wind’ takes flight
MIT scientists create the world’s first 'ion drive' aircraft, which fly without propellers, turbines, or any moving parts at all.