What defines an "Aircraft"?

An "Aircraft" is defined as any machine that is capable of flight. This definition encompasses a wide range of flying vehicles, including airplanes, helicopters, drones, and gliders, which all have the fundamental ability to be propelled into the air and maintain controlled flight.

The concept of flight is broad, allowing for various designs and purposes, as long as they can operate in the atmosphere. This definition aligns with the regulatory standards set forth by aviation authorities, which categorize these machines based on their capabilities rather than their specific design or intended use.

In contrast, vehicles designed for space travel are classified as spacecraft and are specifically tailored for the conditions of outer space, which differ significantly from those required for atmospheric flight. Structures that provide lift and thrust alone might not encompass the full operational capabilities of an aircraft, which include control and stability in flight. Finally, the description of an airplane operating at high altitudes is too narrow and excludes many other flying vehicles that might not operate at high altitudes but are still classified as aircraft.