The World’s Largest Plane Has A Wingspan Of 117 Metre And Weighs Twice As Much As A Boeing 747

The world’s largest plane today took a few baby steps, getting very close to its test flight.

The Stratolaunch, as it’s called, began a new set of ground-based tests today, with the massive behemoth cruising along at about 74kmph on the runway.

In fact, the Stratolaunch began testing last year, with the round ending only in December, seeing the aircraft plodding along at 45 kph. Why is the plane stuck so long in testing hell you ask? Well, it might be because it’s 72.5 metres long, the biggest we’ve ever seen.

It’s all part of a strict set of guidelines to certify the aircraft’s ability to steer and stop, something’s that’s crucial if it needs to, you know, land. Unfortunately, despite even the new photos the company has released, it seems Big Bird may not really fly anytime soon. Stratolaunch Systems had no comment for the press on when the first flight may be, or what other checks are required before then.

The current record holder for aircraft with the longest wingspan is the Hughes H-4 Spruce Goose, at 97.5 metres. The Stratolaunch plane on the other hand has an astonishing 117-metre-long wingspan. It’s also the heaviest to takeoff, toppling a Boeing 747’s weight of 300 tons by about 290 more.

Stratolaunch’s vehicle is part of founder Paul Allen’s plan to lower the cost of launches into space. Instead of Musk’s reusable rocket system, he decided to just go with a big old jet for the first stage.

And maybe, if this bird finally lifts off the ground of these days, it’ll be such a sight to see.