How Airplanes Fly for Kids

Airplanes are one of the most fascinating machines humans have ever built.

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For children, airplanes are a perfect way to learn about motion, air, and design. Understanding how airplanes fly starts with understanding air itself. Air moves faster over the curved top of an airplane wing than underneath it, creating lift that helps the airplane rise into the sky.

Not all flying machines are the same. A glider uses wings but has no engine, relying on air currents to stay aloft. Adding an engine and a propeller allows an airplane to move forward under its own power. Some airplanes use more than one engine to carry heavier loads or travel farther distances.

Early airplanes, called biplanes, used two sets of wings to create extra lift when engines were less powerful.

Some flying machines do not use wings at all. Helicopters lift straight upward using spinning blades, allowing them to hover and land in small spaces. Each design solves a different problem, which makes airplanes a great example of engineering choices.

This week’s episode of our kids' show explores these ideas through hands-on learning and a paper airplane activity. You can also check out our recent episode on this topic to see these concepts in action.

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