Ladybirds can fly 74 miles in one go: Research shows insects can also travel as fast as racehorse and fly at height of 3,600ft. New research reveals tiny bugs don't care about their size. They estimate ladybirds can fly incredibly fast, reaching speeds of 37mph. They can also stay in air for up to two hours, making long distance flights. Can travel up to 74 miles in a single flight, according to new data. Scientists at University of Hull carried out perspex box experiments.