aéronef

Aéronef is a French term that translates to aircraft in English. It broadly refers to any machine capable of flight, whether heavier or lighter than air. This encompasses a wide range of vehicles, including airplanes, helicopters, gliders, balloons, and airships. The term is often used in more general or historical contexts, but can also be found in technical or legal documents.

Historically, the development of aéronefs began with lighter-than-air craft like balloons and dirigibles. The invention of the airplane by the Wright brothers marked a significant shift towards heavier-than-air flight, leading to the modern aviation industry. Today, aéronefs play crucial roles in transportation, defense, recreation, and scientific research. The design and operation of these machines involve complex principles of aerodynamics, propulsion, and navigation.