Aeroplanes

According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), an aircraft is defined as an aircraft that is heavier than air and obtains its lift in the air primarily through aerodynamic reactions on surfaces that are at an appropriate angle to the direction of flow. This definition covers a wide range of aircraft, including motorised aircraft, gliders and even drones, provided they meet the above criteria.

Aircraft categories

Aircraft can be divided into several categories based on their size, intended use and type of propulsion. The most important categories are

Civil and military aircraft: Civil aircraft are used for commercial, private or general aviation purposes, while military aircraft are specifically designed for defence and war purposes.

By intended useThese include passenger aircraft, cargo aircraft, training aircraft, agricultural aircraft, fire-fighting aircraft and many others.

According to drive typePropeller aircraft, which are powered by piston or turboprop engines, and jet aircraft, which are powered by jet engines or turbofans. Piston and turboprop engines are particularly relevant for general aviation, which is why we want to go into a little more detail here.