noun
- Aircraft or other flying devices that are heavier than air and generate lift through aerodynamic forces, such as wings.
Usage: plural of aerodyne; technical/aviation term; contrasts with aerostats (lighter-than-air craft)
Examples
- Modern aerodynes include airplanes, helicopters, and gliders.
- The design of aerodynes relies on principles of aerodynamics to stay aloft.
- Unlike balloons, aerodynes must maintain forward motion to generate lift.
- Early aerodynes were experimental and often unreliable.
- Commercial aerodynes transport millions of passengers annually.