A glider is an aircraft that has no engine.
Gliders: Aircraft Without Engines
Gliders are a unique type of aircraft that achieve flight without the assistance of an engine. Instead, they rely on aerodynamic principles and external forces to stay airborne.
- Definition: According to the reference provided, a glider aircraft does not utilize an engine and instead is supported only by the reaction of air against its lifting surfaces.
How Gliders Stay Aloft
Gliders use several methods to gain and maintain altitude:
- Towed Launch: Gliders can be towed into the air by another aircraft and then released.
- Winch Launch: A powerful winch on the ground can pull a glider into the air.
- Soaring: Skilled glider pilots can utilize rising air currents, such as thermals (columns of warm air) or ridge lift (air deflected upwards by a ridge or mountain), to stay airborne for extended periods and cover significant distances.
Types of Gliders
There are different types of gliders, each designed for specific purposes:
- Sailplanes: High-performance gliders designed for soaring and cross-country flights.
- Hang Gliders: Simple, foot-launched gliders.
- Paragliders: Similar to hang gliders, but with a fabric wing that inflates with air.
Examples of Aircraft Without Engines
The following is a list of aircraft that have no engine:
- Gliders
- Sailplanes
- Hang Gliders
- Paragliders
