An aircraft is a craft that flies through the air.
There are many different  types of aircraft.
An aeroplane is a type of aircraft, that has fixed wings for lift, and a means of propulsion.
Means of Propulsion is a fancy way to say a way to move on it’s own. 
There are big aeroplanes,
and small aeroplanes,

There are VERY big aeroplanes,
and very small aeroplanes, 
Some aeroplanes have
jet engines,
and some have propellers. 

A glider is an aircraft which flies without a motor, it uses air currents for lift.

A glider needs to be launched, by towing or by a winch,
A motor glider uses a motor to launch, then stows the motor after takeoff 
A helicopter is an aircraft that uses rotating blades like wings to create lift.

A helicopter can also have a piston engine, 
or a jet engine.

A hot air balloon is an aircraft which is lighter that air.
It’s just like a party helium balloon, floating into the air when you let go. 
And, just like a party helium balloon,
They come in all sorts of different shapes and sizes 
The balloon pilot lets the gas cool to come down, and heats it up to rise. 
Airships are like balloons, filled with gasses lighter than air.
This enables the airship to float into the air like a balloon. 
But, unlike a balloon, they also have a means of steering and propulsion.
Airships are also sometimes called  ’zeppelins’ or ’blimps’
Because of their complex design, and a poor accident history during their early years, there are only a few airships still in operation today.
     

Some aircraft are built to do a special job.

Aerobatic aircraft Like aerobatic aeroplanes, are built for doing aerobatic flying, for displays, competitions, or joy rides.

Military aircraft,
work to defend the people and the country they belong to.
Agricultural aircraft help farmers with their job.
There are aircraft that help to save peoples lives;

Working as firefighters, air ambulances, and search and rescue.

Which aircraft do you want to fly?

Draw a picture of your favourite aircraft here.
Write about your favourite aircraft here.
