An aeroplane has to deal with four forces: its weight pulls down, lift pushes up, engines provide forward thrust, and air resistance—called drag—pushes back.
Fun fact: A glider can fly without an engine.
A four-slide private lesson about How Do Aeroplanes Fly?
How Do Aeroplanes Fly?
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As the aeroplane moves through air, its wings affect the air around them. The wings' shape and angle help create an upward force called lift.
Fun fact: Even a flat plate can make lift when tilted into moving air.
During takeoff, the plane gains speed, and the pilot raises its nose to the right angle. The wings provide lift, and extra engine power helps the plane gain height.
Fun fact: Wing flaps can extend for takeoff and landing.
Ailerons, elevators, and the rudder help the pilot turn and control the plane. The engines keep it moving forward, while the wings keep working with the air.
Fun fact: An aeroplane's ailerons usually move in opposite directions.