Back to archive
1947 AD

The Bell X-1 breaks the sound barrier

Chuck Yeager makes the first piloted supersonic flight in level flight.

The Bell X-1 breaks the sound barrier historical illustration
Time period
1947 AD
Region
Americas
Theme
Technology

On 14 October 1947, Chuck Yeager flew the Bell X-1 faster than sound in level flight. The rocket-powered aircraft opened a new phase of experimental aviation.