What type of aircraft does the term "fixed wing" refer to?

What type of aircraft does the term "fixed wing" refer to?

• A. Helicopters
• B. Floatplanes
• C. Airplanes without rotors
• D. Vertical Takeoff Aircraft

Answer: (C)

The term "fixed wing" specifically refers to airplanes that have wings that do not move or change position during flight, unlike rotorcraft such as helicopters. These aircraft rely on the aerodynamic lift generated by the shape and design of their wings to fly. Fixed-wing airplanes are designed to travel forward, generating lift as air moves over their wings. In contrast, the other options refer to aircraft types that either do not use fixed wings for lift or have additional capabilities. Helicopters feature rotating blades instead of fixed wings and are capable of vertical takeoff and landing. Floatplanes are specific types of airplanes that can land on water but still fall under the category of fixed-wing aircraft since they have non-moving wings. Vertical takeoff aircraft, which typically includes rotorcraft, also do not fit the definition of fixed wing. Therefore, understanding the nature and capabilities of fixed-wing aircraft helps clarify why airplanes without rotors are categorized as such.

The term "fixed wing" specifically refers to airplanes that have wings that do not move or change position during flight, unlike rotorcraft such as helicopters. These aircraft rely on the aerodynamic lift generated by the shape and design of their wings to fly. Fixed-wing airplanes are designed to travel forward, generating lift as air moves over their wings.

In contrast, the other options refer to aircraft types that either do not use fixed wings for lift or have additional capabilities. Helicopters feature rotating blades instead of fixed wings and are capable of vertical takeoff and landing. Floatplanes are specific types of airplanes that can land on water but still fall under the category of fixed-wing aircraft since they have non-moving wings. Vertical takeoff aircraft, which typically includes rotorcraft, also do not fit the definition of fixed wing. Therefore, understanding the nature and capabilities of fixed-wing aircraft helps clarify why airplanes without rotors are categorized as such.