The Bell X-2 was built to break barriers and reach the edge of space—but pushing the limits came at a devastating cost. This Mach 3 rocket plane marked a turning point in aviation history ...

“Mel” Apt, working for Buffalo’s Larry “Bell Aerospace” and flying the Bell X-2. The year was 1956. He hit Mach 3—making history—and his plane was never found. Bell X2. That would be ...

Small images (left to right): Bell X-2 The X-2 explored high-Mach, swept-wing flight. It incorporated high-strength steel-alloy construction (stainless steel and copper-nickel alloy) to deal with ...