Experimental aviation
From the Wright Flyer to the X-planes: the experimental and research aircraft that changed aviation.
About experimental aircraft
Experimental aircraft are built to test new ideas before they are used in production aircraft: new wings, new engines, new materials or completely new ways of flying. Many were one-offs, built in only one or two examples and flown by test pilots who took great risks.
From the Wright Flyer of 1903 to the jets of the 1940s and the American X-planes, these aircraft broke the sound barrier, reached the edge of space and paved the way for the airliners and fighters we know today. Modern test aircraft are working on quiet supersonic flight, drones and new forms of propulsion.
Choose an era below, or use the A–Z list to go straight to an aircraft.
Pioneers
The first powered flights and record breakers, 1903–1938.
Jet age
The first jet aircraft and swept-wing fighters, 1939–1955.
X-planes & research
Research aircraft that pushed speed, height and technology.
Future & in development
Today's test aircraft and tomorrow's designs.
Stratolaunch Roc2019 · Scaled Composites / Stratolaunch- XB-1Boom XB-1 Baby BoomXB-1 · 2024 · Boom Supersonic
Lockheed Martin X-59 QueSSTX-59 · Lockheed Martin Skunk Works
Aurora X-65 CRANEX-65 · Aurora Flight Sciences- HDHermeus DarkhorseHermeus
- RVREGENT ViceroyREGENT
Anduril YFQ-44A FuryYFQ-44A · Anduril Industries
All experimental aircraft A–Z
Every aircraft on one list.
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