Fixed-wing aircraft : Ask Biography

A PZL-104 Wilga. This fixed-wing aircraft has full-span fixed aerodynamic slot on the leading edge of its wing.

Aircraft Type

Name

Fixed-wing aircraft

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A fixed-wing aircraft is an aircraft capable of flight using forward motion that generates lift as the wing moves through the air. Fixed-wing aircraft are distinct from rotary-wing aircraft in which wings rotate about a fixed mast and ornithopters in which lift is generated by flapping wings.

A powered fixed-wing aircraft, which is propelled forward by thrust from a jet engine or propeller, is typically called an aeroplane, airplane or simply plane. Unpowered fixed-wing aircraft (gliders) can use rising air to gain height.

Most fixed-wing aircraft are flown by a pilot on board the aircraft, but some are designed to be remotely or computer-controlled.