Wind passing under and over the wings creates lift, which sends the fish gliding through the air. The fish slaps at the water with its tail to keep the glide going. And we’re not talking just a few seconds of flight. Flying fish can travel hundreds of feet through the air, skimming over the surface of the water. Some fish have been caught on video remaining airborne for nearly forty seconds. You can watch footage on YouTube. Japanese researchers learned that gliding near the surface of the ocean helps flying fish stay in the air longer. And to keep away from the jaws of the bigger fish that sent them flying in the first place.