5 ms·

Fly? Isn't it basically gliding?

• WJW 6y ago
  Except for rockets, everything in the air is gliding. Some things are also powered, but that does not makes them glide less, just more.
  • ajuc 6y ago
    Ballons aren't gliding. Helicopters and quadcopters also aren't gliding.
    • WJW 6y ago
      Helicopters and quadcopters provide lift through rotary wings, thereby gliding. Fair point about balloons though.
      • ajuc 6y ago
        That's like saying cars are moving by turning (because their wheels do that).
        • meheleventyone 6y ago
          Cars are moved by turning though. From the pistons driving the engine, through the gearbox and drivetrain to the wheels.
    • deleted 6y ago
      [deleted]
  • starpilot 6y ago
    In aviation, by definition gliding is unpowered flight, like coasting in a car. If you're doing performance calculations, there are different equations for gliding and powered flight.