Routinely flown at altitudes over 70,000 feet, the U-2 pilot must wear a full pressure suit similar to those worn by astronauts.

The low-altitude handling characteristics of the aircraft and bicycle-type landing gear require precise control inputs during landing; forward visibility is also limited due to the extended aircraft nose and “taildragger” configuration. A second U-2 pilot normally “chases” each landing in a high-performance chase car, assisting the pilot by providing radio inputs for altitude and runway alignment. These characteristics combine to earn the U-2 a widely accepted title as the most difficult aircraft in the world to fly.

While on missions, U-2 pilots often see a natural occurrence called the terminator line. It’s a line that separates day and night. It is also referred to as the “grey line” and the “twilight zone.” It is a fuzzy line due to our atmosphere bending sunlight. This “ah ha” moment is a beautiful reminder of how small we are when skimming the edge of space.

Early U-2 variants were powered by Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engines.

The U-2C and TR-1A variants used the more powerful Pratt & Whitney J75 turbojet.

The U-2S and TU-2S variants incorporated the even more powerful General Electric F118 turbofan engine