Airplane

An airplane is a powered fixed-wing aircraft designed to generate lift from wings and move forward through the air using thrust from engines such as jets or propellers.

An airplane is a powered fixed-wing aircraft that generates lift from its wings and moves forward using thrust from engines such as jets or propellers. In Canadian and American English, “airplane” is the standard term for this type of aircraft, while “aeroplane” is more common in Commonwealth English.

Definition

An airplane is a fixed-wing aircraft that is heavier than air and is kept aloft by aerodynamic lift produced by its wings. It is one of the main categories of aircraft.

Design and flight

Airplanes rely on wing shape, called an airfoil, to create lift when air flows over and under the wing. They also require thrust from an engine—such as a jet, propeller, or rocket—to move forward and maintain flight.

Uses

Airplanes serve many roles, including passenger transport, cargo movement, military missions, recreation, and scientific research. Their forms vary widely depending on mission and size.

Terminology

In Canada and the United States, “airplane” is the usual term for powered fixed-wing aircraft. In the United Kingdom and much of the Commonwealth, “aeroplane” is more common. In Canadian English, “airplane” is standard, though “aeroplane” is also recognized in broader Commonwealth usage.