Author: John Cox, Special to USA TODAY

Pilots fly many different airplanes of the same model within a fleet. While there are some differences, they fly pretty much the same.

Modern airplanes are designed to withstand heavy turbulence without damage.

The A380, the largest airplane in commercial airline service, can hold nearly 86,000 US gallons of jet fuel.

The B757 is a high-performance airliner. It operates well in high-altitude airports and is one of Boeing’s best performers.

The SR-71 was in a class by itself. No other airplane could go as high, as fast, for as long as the legendary reconnaissance jet.

Airline pilots adjust to widely varied demands every month, from long-haul service to short regional flights.