Speed Records of the SR-71 Blackbird
The SR-71 Blackbird is a supersonic reconnaissance plane developed by Lockheed Skunk Works in the 1950s and 1960s. The aircraft has been retired from service, but its impressive speed records remain unmatched to this day. Here are five notable speed records achieved by the SR-71 Blackbird:
Speed Record 1: Absolute Speed
- Date: July 28, 1976
- Pilot: Brian Shul
- Speed: 2,193.16 mph (3,529.6 km/h)
- Altitude: 80,000 feet (24,384 meters)
On July 28, 1976, SR-71 pilot Brian Shul flew the aircraft at an absolute speed of 2,193.16 mph, setting a new world record. This record remains unbroken to this day.
Speed Record 2: Sustained Speed
- Date: December 22, 1964
- Pilot: Robert L. “Bob” Gilliland
- Speed: 2,070 mph (3,330 km/h)
- Duration: 15 minutes
On December 22, 1964, SR-71 pilot Robert L. “Bob” Gilliland flew the aircraft at a sustained speed of 2,070 mph for 15 minutes, setting a new record for sustained speed.
Speed Record 3: Acceleration
- Date: January 16, 1975
- Pilot: Brian Shul
- Speed: 0-60,000 feet (0-18,288 meters) in 1 minute 45 seconds
On January 16, 1975, SR-71 pilot Brian Shul flew the aircraft from 0 to 60,000 feet in just 1 minute 45 seconds, setting a new record for acceleration.
Speed Record 4: Climb Rate
- Date: January 16, 1975
- Pilot: Brian Shul
- Climb Rate: 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) per minute
On January 16, 1975, SR-71 pilot Brian Shul flew the aircraft at a climb rate of 4,000 feet per minute, setting a new record for climb rate.
Speed Record 5: High-Altitude Speed
- Date: July 28, 1976
- Pilot: Brian Shul
- Speed: 2,193.16 mph (3,529.6 km/h)
- Altitude: 85,000 feet (25,908 meters)
On July 28, 1976, SR-71 pilot Brian Shul flew the aircraft at a high altitude of 85,000 feet, reaching a speed of 2,193.16 mph. This record demonstrates the aircraft’s ability to maintain high speeds at extreme altitudes.
🚀 Note: These speed records are subject to verification by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the international governing body for aeronautical and astronautical records.
These five speed records showcase the impressive capabilities of the SR-71 Blackbird, an aircraft that remains an iconic symbol of speed and innovation in the world of aviation.
What is the SR-71 Blackbird’s top speed?
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The SR-71 Blackbird’s top speed is approximately 2,193.16 mph (3,529.6 km/h), achieved on July 28, 1976.
What is the SR-71 Blackbird’s service ceiling?
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The SR-71 Blackbird’s service ceiling is approximately 85,000 feet (25,908 meters).
Who was the primary designer of the SR-71 Blackbird?
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The primary designer of the SR-71 Blackbird was Clarence “Kelly” Johnson, a renowned American aeronautical engineer.
Related Terms:
- SR 71 top speed
- SR 71 Blackbird
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- sr 72 blackbird top speed
- lockheed a-12 top speed
- Sr 71 blackbird engine
