Speed is often measured in kilometers per hour, but also in Mach, which corresponds to the speed of sound. For reference, Mach 1 is approximately 1,230 km/h. The Blackbird, an American military aircraft, holds the title of the fastest aircraft in the world with a top speed of Mach 3.32, or 3,540 km/h.
The top speed of the Boeing 747 itself is about 570 mph, and this flight maxed out at 825 mph. The difference between “ground speed” (zero bonus) and “air speed” (200+ mph bonus) is also why this speed, while technically faster than the speed of sound, didn't ever go supersonic.
The reason planes cruise at high altitudes is that they burn less fuel and can fly faster, as the air is less dense. At 30,000 feet and higher, it is also possible for aircraft to avoid weather systems, making it more comfortable onboard.
The North American X-15 may be the fastest plane in the world, with speeds at 4,520 mph and Mach 5.93. It's an experimental aircraft used and powered by NASA and USAF.
In a more unusual episode, during a 1956 test flight, a Grumman pilot flying an F11F shot himself down by overtaking his bullets in a diving maneuver. Despite its performance, the Tiger's service life was short, as it coincided with development of the F8U Crusader and F4H Phantom II.
The Aerion AS2 supersonic business jet is planned to go into production in 2023. The supersonic AS2 promises a range of 4,200 nautical miles at Mach 1.4, or over 1,000 miles per hour.
This depends on the plane. Small planes can get anywhere from 500 nautical miles to upwards of 1500 nautical miles depending on fuel load and optional tank configuration. But the middle of that range seems to be the average.
Private flights usually cost more than a standard airline ticket. Much of this price point has to do with the exclusivity that goes along with flying private, as well as the many added benefits and luxuries.
Do I need a passport and visa to fly in my own private jet? No, you don't. However, if you want to fly your hypothetical private jet to another country, well, you're going to need at least a passport.
Number 1: North American X-15 This aircraft has the current world record for the fastest manned aircraft. Its maximum speed was Mach 6.70 (about 7,200 km/h) which it attained on the 3rd of October 1967 thanks to its pilot William J. “Pete” Knight.