How do airplanes stay in the air?

At first glance, it might seem like a mystery how airplanes can soar through the sky. After all, they are heavy machines made of metal and other materials. But the secret to their flight lies in the principles of aerodynamics.

The shape of an airplane's wings, known as airfoils, is specifically designed to create lift as it moves through the air. As the airplane moves forward, air flows over the curved upper surface of the wings, creating an area of lower air pressure. This low-pressure area creates an upward force known as lift, which is what keeps the airplane in the air.

Other factors also play a role in keeping an airplane in flight. The engines provide the necessary thrust to move the airplane forward, while the tail and rudder control the direction of the airplane. And the control surfaces on the wings, such as the flaps and ailerons, help the pilot adjust the lift and drag forces acting on the airplane.