What are the most mind-blowing facts about airplanes?

Until the launch of the A380-800 in late 2010, the 747-400 had been the largest commercial aircraft in service, with a maximum takeoff weight of about 800,000 pounds. But the A380-800, with it’s full upper deck, has a maximum takeoff weight of 1.2 million pounds. Put another way, it’s 50% heavier than a 747-400.

The wings of commercial aircraft can flex an unbelievable amount before shattering, typically up to about 150% of their maximum design limits. See video below. Extra point: I was read (but cannot confirm) that when the 787 was first tested, the testing machine failed before the wings!

When the new 747-8i was undergoing RTO (rejected takeoff) wheel brake tests, it was performed with the following unbelievable conditions:

maximum takeoff weight
no reverse thrust allowed
completely worn out brake pads (i.e., metal on metal)

Mind blowing video below:

Assuming properly certified aircraft, flight crew, and airport, airplanes can — and routinely will — autoland in basically “zero-zero” conditions utilizing ILS CAT IIIc approaches, i.e., zero visibility at zero altitude. Check out this amazing video:

Commercial aircraft are remarkably nimble, and far more agile than their behemoth size would suggest. Check out these amazing crosswind landings:

And another really famous one of a Korean 747-400 at the now disused Kai Tak airport in Hong Kong:

More mind blowing facts and videos when I think of them!!