10 biggest birds that still fly

May 1, 2025 TOI Lifestyle Desk

Biggest flying birds

Size and flight don’t always go hand in hand but these giant birds prove otherwise. Here are the largest birds on Earth that can still take to the skies. iStock

Wandering albatross

The wandering albatross has the longest wingspan of any bird, reaching up to 12 feet, allowing it to glide over oceans for hours without flapping. iStock

Andean condor

The Andean condor is one of the heaviest flying birds and uses thermal air currents to soar effortlessly across the Andes. iStock

Dalmatian pelican

The Dalmatian pelican is not only massive but also graceful in flight, with its large wings helping it glide across lakes and wetlands. iStock

Trumpeter swan

Known for its elegance, the trumpeter swan is also one of the heaviest birds that fly, using strong wingbeats to stay airborne. iStock

Mute swan

The mute swan looks peaceful on the water, but in the air, the mute swan's large wings and powerful flight make it a dominant presence. iStock

Eurasian black vulture

Also called the cinereous vulture, the Eurasian black vulture has broad wings that make it a master of soaring at high altitudes. iStock

Marabou stork

The marabou stork may look awkward on land, but in the sky, the marabou stork’s wide wingspan helps it glide efficiently in warm air currents. iStock

Great white pelican

The great white pelican is another giant of the skies, known for its strong, steady flight over large lakes and coasts. iStock

Lappet-faced vulture

The lappet-faced vulture is a powerful flier, using its huge wings to cover great distances while searching for food in the savannah. iStock

Kori bustard

The kori bustard is one of the heaviest birds capable of flight, although the kori bustard prefers short-distance flying due to its weight. iStock

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