airplane

An airplane, or aeroplane, is a powered, fixed-wing aircraft designed for transporting passengers or cargo. It achieves sustained flight by creating lift with its wings as it moves through the air, while propulsion provides forward thrust. In contrast to helicopters, airplanes rely on forward motion to generate lift rather than rotor blades. A typical airplane consists of a rigid fuselage, two or more wings, a tail assembly (empennage), and an undercarriage or landing gear. Powerplants range from piston engines in light aircraft to turbofan and turboprop engines in most modern airliners. Control surfaces include ailerons on the wings for rolling, elevators on the tail for pitch, and a rudder for yaw; flight control is usually managed by a cockpit crew via a control yoke or stick and rudder pedals, with many airliners employing fly-by-wire systems.

Airplanes are categorized by use: commercial airliners and regional jets for passenger transport, cargo aircraft, business jets, general aviation, and military planes. Design choices balance speed, range, payload, and efficiency. Modern airliners often use light, strong materials such as composites and systems that automate flight, navigation, and safety.

The history of airplane flight began with experimental gliders and powered flights by the Wright brothers in 1903. Since then, airplanes have evolved through piston to jet engines, enabling high-speed, long-distance travel. Governing authorities require airworthiness certification and ongoing maintenance, with operations coordinated by air traffic control. Environmental impact and advances in propulsion and materials continue to shape the industry.