Aircraft built to fly faster than the speed of sound or to test and demonstrate a new aviation capability rather than to serve an established commercial or military role, a recognized category in aviation history distinct from ordinary production airliners and warplanes. Belongs here: supersonic aircraft, whether commercial or purely experimental, and experimental or record-setting research aircraft. Does not belong here: ordinary subsonic airliners and conventional military aircraft, each grouped under its own category.
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1. Wikipedia: Sound barrier
WikipediaSound barrier, lead section, Yeager 1947 sentenceQuote, Sound barrier, lead section, Yeager 1947 sentence
In 1947, American test pilot Chuck Yeager demonstrated that safe flight at the speed of sound was achievable in purpose-designed aircraft, thereby breaking the barrier.
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