TLDR: An airplane is a flying vehicle with wings that is powered by engines. It can be used for recreation, transportation, military purposes, and research. Airplanes come in different sizes and shapes and can be flown by a pilot or controlled remotely.

An airplane, also known as an aeroplane, is a fixed-wing aircraft that is propelled forward by thrust from a jet engine, propeller, or rocket engine. It can come in various sizes, shapes, and wing configurations. Airplanes are used for a wide range of purposes, including recreation, transportation of goods and people, military operations, and research.

Commercial aviation is a major part of the airline industry, transporting billions of passengers and tons of cargo annually. Most airplanes are flown by a pilot on board, but there are also unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, that can be remotely or computer-controlled.

The Wright brothers are credited with inventing and flying the first airplane in 1903. They built on the works of earlier pioneers like George Cayley and Otto Lilienthal. Airplane technology continued to develop after World War I, and airplanes played a significant role in World War II. The first jet aircraft and jet airliner were introduced in the late 1930s and early 1950s, respectively.

Airplanes have different types of propulsion systems. Some use propellers, which are driven by reciprocating engines or gas turbines. Others use jet engines, which are more powerful and efficient. Jet engines can be turbofan engines, which have a ducted fan to provide additional thrust, or they can be ramjets or scramjets, which rely on high-speed airflow for compression and combustion.

The design and manufacture of airplanes involve a complex process that includes planning, testing, and certification by aviation governing agencies. The airframe, which includes the wings, fuselage, and other structural parts, is constructed using materials like wood, metal, or composites. The wings are designed to create lift, and the fuselage houses the flight crew, passengers, cargo, and engines.

Airplanes can have different wing configurations, such as monoplanes, biplanes, or tandem wings. The shape of the wings, known as the airfoil, is designed to generate lift and reduce drag. The fuselage can be streamlined to minimize aerodynamic resistance.

In summary, airplanes are powered flying vehicles with wings that are used for various purposes. They are propelled by engines and can be controlled by a pilot or remotely operated. The design and manufacture of airplanes involve careful planning and testing to ensure safety and efficiency.