Can a fish fly?

Flying fish, who live in the warm waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, can spread and stiffen their large fins like wings and propel themselves into the air for short distances. A flying fish can glide through the air for at least 30 seconds and can reach a top speed of at least 40 miles (64 kilometers) per hour, produced by the quick movement and vibration of its tail fin. The fish extends its “flight” by plunging its vibrating tail into the water, thus adding momentum. Flying fish can be seen gliding over waves when they are trying to escape their predators, such as albacore or blue fish, or to escape collision with a boat.

The unusual flying fish uses its long fins to actually soar out of the water for hundreds of feet at a time!