Aircraft: meaning, definitions and examples

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Accepted Answer

Word	Description / Examples
aircraft	This term is a broad category used to describe any machine capable of flying. It can refer to airplanes, helicopters, gliders, etc. The aircraft will undergo routine maintenance tomorrow. The company designs and manufactures various types of aircraft.
airplane	Typically used to refer to fixed-wing aircraft powered by engines. It’s a common term for commercial passenger planes. We will be traveling to New York by airplane. The airplane landed safely after a long flight.
plane	A more casual or colloquial term for an airplane. It’s used in everyday conversation. I’m taking a plane to Florida next week. The plane was delayed due to bad weather.
helicopter	Used to describe a type of aircraft that achieves lift and propulsion from rotors rather than fixed wings. Helicopters are capable of vertical takeoff and landing. The rescue team arrived quickly in a helicopter. Helicopters are often used for medical emergencies.
flying machine	This term is rarely used in modern language and has a historical or experimental connotation. It was more common in the early days of aviation. The Wright brothers are famous for creating the first successful flying machine. Early flying machines were very different from today’s advanced aircraft.

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