How fast do commercial airplanes fly? Commercial airplanes are built for speed, efficiency, and long-distance travel, making air travel the most efficient means of transportation accessible today. Commercial jets typically cruise at speeds ranging from 500 to 600 miles per hour (800 to 960 kilometers per hour) while flying at altitudes of roughly 35,000 feet. These speeds are designed to maximize fuel efficiency and safety while traveling long distances in a short period. Different aircraft models, such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380, have unique cruising speeds, however, most modern airliners fall within this range. Depending on wind conditions and flight paths, airplanes may fly slightly faster or slower, although they typically maintain similar speeds for efficient travel.