How do airplanes fly?

Airplanes fly because fast-moving air around their shaped wings creates lift, an upward force strong enough to balance the plane's weight. Engines push the plane forward, air flows over and under the wings, and the wing shape helps pressure differ above and below.

A plane also has to manage thrust, drag, and weight while it climbs, turns, and lands. Small hinged parts on the wings and tail help pilots steer. On landing, extra flaps help the plane stay steady at slower speeds before the wheels meet the runway.