Why Was The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird So Hard To Fly?

Simple Flying

By Justin Hayward

Published Jul 23, 2023

The SR71 is the fastest operational military aircraft ever. Piloting was a challenge for several reasons.

Photo: PJSAero / Shutterstock

The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird holds the titles for being the fastest and highest military aircraft ever built, reaching speeds of Mach 3.2 and altitudes of 85,069 feet.
Flying the Blackbird was a challenging task for pilots due to the high forces experienced during acceleration and the increased sensitivity of controls at high speeds and altitudes.
The extreme temperatures experienced during flight, reaching up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit, required pilots to wear protective gear that restricted movement and vision. Additionally, the aircraft's design and fueling process posed unique challenges for preparation and operation.