The largest airplane in the world is the Stratolaunch Roc, a massive aircraft designed to launch rockets into space from high altitudes. Developed by Stratolaunch Systems, the Roc first took flight in 2019, although it was officially built in 2017. This groundbreaking aircraft was the vision of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, who aimed to revolutionize space access by making orbital launches more efficient and cost-effective.
What makes the Stratolaunch Roc stand out is its record-breaking wingspan, which measures 385 feet (117 meters) — longer than a football field and even surpassing the wingspan of the famous Airbus A380 or Boeing 747. The aircraft is powered by six Boeing 747 engines, allowing it to carry heavy payloads high into the atmosphere.
The Roc features twin fuselages — a unique design that supports the payload in the center section beneath the wing. This allows rockets to be attached between the fuselages and launched mid-air, providing an alternative to traditional ground-based launches. This method offers flexibility in launch timing and location, as well as reduced fuel requirements for reaching orbit.
Stratolaunch’s primary goal is to serve as a mobile platform for launching hypersonic and orbital vehicles, helping clients such as government agencies and private aerospace companies. As of recent updates, Stratolaunch continues to test and refine Roc’s capabilities for future commercial and defense-related missions.
With its massive scale and innovative approach to space launch, the Stratolaunch Roc represents a major step forward in aviation and aerospace technology, solidifying its place in history as the largest airplane ever built.
