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The question "What is the speed of an unladen swallow?" is famously associated with the movie Monty Python and the Holy Grail, where it is posed as a bridge-keeping riddle.

In reality, the answer depends on the species of swallow. The most commonly referenced swallow in this context is the European swallow (Hirundo rustica).

Estimated Speed:

• Air speed velocity: Studies suggest that a European swallow in level flight averages about 11 meters per second (or roughly 24–25 mph, 40 km/h). This accounts for flapping flight, not gliding.
• Factors affecting speed: Weight (unladen means not carrying cargo), wind conditions, and whether the bird is migrating or flying casually.

African vs. European Swallow (Monty Python Reference):

In the movie, the bridgekeeper asks whether the swallow is African or European, hinting that the answer matters. While both species exist, the African swallow (Hirundo senegalensis) is slightly larger, but no definitive speed difference is widely documented. The joke lies in the absurd specificity of the question.

Scientific Note:

Ornithologists have debated this question humorously, but real-world measurements align with the ~24 mph estimate for European swallows. For comparison, hummingbirds can reach 30+ mph, and falcons dive at 200+ mph.

So, in short: ~24 mph (40 km/h) for an unladen European swallow. If it’s African, consult the bridgekeeper!