Discover the fastest passenger planes that have graced the skies, from supersonic legends to today's quickest commercial jets. This comparison explores the top speeds of aircraft designed for human transport, including both historical models and the most modern airliners and private jets. Ideal for aviation enthusiasts and travellers curious about aeronautical engineering.
Capable of transporting up to 400 passengers
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Although it is a longer-term project, the Destinus L represents the most ambitious vision for large-scale hypersonic passenger transport. Its goal of Mach 6 and capacity for hundreds of passengers shows the future direction of ultra-fast aviation.
Top speed of Mach 0.95
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This business jet is the fastest civil aircraft in operation since the Concorde, having obtained its European certification in January 2026. Its speed and range position it as a leader in high-speed executive aviation.
Cruises at Mach 1.7 (twice the speed of subsonic airliners)
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The Overture is the most advanced supersonic passenger aircraft project, with its XB-1 demonstrator successfully performing supersonic flights in 2025. It is designed to be the successor to the Concorde, promising to drastically reduce transatlantic travel times with sustainable technology.
Carries up to 25 passengers
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This project represents the next generation of ultra-fast air travel, with an innovative focus on hydrogen propulsion. Its hypersonic capability and zero carbon emissions position it as a leader in future sustainable aviation.
Projected top speed of Mach 5.5 (4,219 mph)
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Hermeus is one of the leading companies in the race for commercial hypersonic aviation, with an ambitious target of Mach 5. Although its passenger model does not yet have a commercial name, its combined-cycle engine technology is key to achieving extreme speeds.