http://www.berdutmagnetech.com/documents/maglev_trains.pdf Track To The Future: Maglev Trains On Permanent Magnets] — Scott R. Gourley — Popular Mechanics For example, at 500 kmph the lift to drag ratio is 200:1, In "MagLev: A New Approach", above, section on "The Issue of Efficiency" far higher than any aircraft but much lower than classic steel on steel rail which reaches 1000:1 (rolling resistance).