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Much more than you may think. For those who still don't believe soaring is real flying, consider the following world records. (Editor's note: many have questioned the validity of the duration flight below. Proof is now included.)
- Highest altitude: 50,722 feet (Commercial jets typically fly around 35,000 ft.)
- Furthest distance: 1,870 miles
- Fastest speed (fixed course): 154.8 mph
- Longest duration: 57 hours 10 minutes (Yes, without landing. And not a rest stop in sight, either.) [verify]
Admittedly, most pilots are content with figures a bit lower than these.