airplane

« Back to Glossary Index

The Definition of Airplane

An airplane, also known as an aeroplane, is a type of powered aircraft that generates its lift from the movement of air over fixed lifting surfaces. Generally speaking, an airplane is an engine-driven, fixed-wing aircraft that weighs more than air and relies on the dynamic reaction of air against its wings to remain in flight.

Airplanes come in many different types and sizes, from small, single-engine planes used for personal transportation, to large, multi-engine planes used for commercial aviation. Regardless of size, however, every airplane relies on the same basic principles of lift and aerodynamics to stay in the air.

In order to generate lift, an airplane needs to move forward through the air. As it does, air flowing over the wings creates an area of low pressure above the wing and a corresponding area of high pressure below the wing. This difference in pressure generates lift, which allows the airplane to climb and stay in the air.

While airplanes are one of the safest forms of transportation, they still require skilled pilots and meticulous maintenance in order to operate safely. From pre-flight checks to maintenance and repair, the safety of everyone onboard an airplane depends on the attention to detail and professionalism of those involved in operating and maintaining the aircraft.

In conclusion, an airplane is a complex and highly-engineered machine that relies on the principles of aerodynamics to stay in the air. From personal transportation to commercial aviation, airplanes have revolutionized modern transportation and have allowed people to explore the world in ways that were once thought impossible.

« Back to Glossary Index
0 Shares