Best Flying Machines In The World

Ever since the first airplane was invented, more and more flying machines have been designed and created. These machines have enabled humans to journey to various locations from the skies to the space, which enhanced their knowledge about the universe. The following are ten of the most impressive flying machines invented throughout history including the key features of each.

1. Wright Flyer

Wright Flyer

This first airplane was invented by the Wright brothers, who were inspired to create this remarkable flying machine because of their fascination with gliders, kites and even a model helicopter. After numerous gliding experiments and tests, they have finally release the first powered and manned airplane on December 17, 1903.

2. World War I Aerial Weapons
Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: View of south hangar, including B-29 Superfortress "Enola Gay", a glimpse of the Air France Concorde, and many others

This German fighter flying machine was created by Manfred von Richthofen, who was popularly coined as the “Red Baron”. His original idea for the aircraft was to serve as a platform for his weapons instead of aerial stunt machines. However, he decided to design the aircraft into efficient war weapons.

3. Zeppelin Hindenburg
Zeppelin LZ 129 „Hindenburg“ am 28.3.1936

This enchanting aircraft was the largest aircraft that was ever invented. It has a massive size that is even larger than a combination of three jumbo jets, as it housed a lounge room with grand piano, sleeping quarters, a post office, and a dining room.

4. Me 262
Messerschmitt ME 262 auf der ILA 2008

Popularly referred to as the secret flying weapon by Germany, the Me 262 was the first operational fighter aircraft that has an astounding kill ratio, as compared to the less powerful fighters and bombers of the Allied Forces.

5. SR-71 Blackbird

Blackbird Plane

This powerful spy aircraft by the U.S military can fly high and fast beyond the reach of missiles and fighter jet interceptors. In fact, this flying machine can soar the skies beyond 2,000 mph and those who wish to ride this aircraft are required to wear suits similar to what astronauts wear for better protection.

6. Saturn V Rocket
Saturn V Moon Rocket Images

The Saturn V Rocket is considered as the most powerful rocket built throughout history. Moreover, this aircraft has an outstanding height that is higher than a 36-storey building.

7. The Space Shuttle
NASA Space Shuttle Endeavour (OV-105)

The Space Shuttle by the U.S was launched like a powerful rocket and served as the workhorses for building the renowned international space station. It was also used to launch and repair the Hubble Space telescope.

8. International Space Station
International Space Station (ISS)

This is regarded as the largest structure that was ever sent to space, and it cost about $100 billion to construct its laboratories, solar panels and living quarters. Astronauts who lived in the international space station were fortunate enough to have an impressive view of Earth as they journeyed throughout the glove at a massive speed of 17,500 mph.

9. SpaceShipOne
SpaceShipOne

Also considered as the First Private Spacecraft, the SpaceShipOne was a cigar-shaped aircraft launched in midair beneath its airplane mothership.This powerful flying machine was quite an expensive one to built, which cost $10 million.

10. V-22 Osprey
V-22 Osprey

Best Flying Machines In The World

This brilliant invention concretized its maker’s dream of creating an aircraft that is capable of hovering like a helicopter and flying like an airplane. Thus, this machine came with wing-mounted rotors, which are capable of tilting to serve as propellers or blades of a helicopter.

John is a passionate blogger about technology and works for an aerospace manufacturer of advanced composites.