The fastest speed ever reached by public transport varies depending on the mode of transportation. Here are the fastest speeds achieved by airplanes and trains:
Airplane: The fastest speed achieved by a commercial airliner was by the British Airways Concorde. The Concorde had a maximum speed of approximately 1,354 mph (2,180 km/h) or Mach 2, which is twice the speed of sound. However, the Concorde was retired from service in 2003, so currently, commercial airliners do not operate at such high speeds.
Train: The fastest speed achieved by a conventional commercial train is the Shanghai Maglev Train in China. The Shanghai Maglev Train has a top operational speed of 267 mph (431 km/h). This magnetic levitation (Maglev) train utilizes magnetic fields to suspend and propel the train, allowing for high-speed travel.
It's worth noting that these speeds represent specific instances of record-breaking achievements and may not be typical for everyday public transportation. In most cases, commercial airliners operate at subsonic speeds (below the speed of sound), and conventional trains typically operate at lower speeds, depending on the infrastructure and regional regulations.