Monoplane

A monoplane is an airplane that has a single main wing. This design contrasts with biplanes (two wings) and triplanes (three wings). Monoplanes typically offer greater aerodynamic efficiency due to reduced drag. This design configuration has become the dominant form of aircraft design, especially for modern commercial and military aircraft, offering benefits in speed, range, and fuel efficiency. Early monoplanes often had their wings mounted on top of the fuselage (high-wing), in the middle (mid-wing), or the bottom (low-wing). This placement has considerable impact on the aircraft's stability and center of gravity.

Monoplane meaning with examples

• The sleek, modern jet soaring overhead was unmistakably a monoplane, its single, expansive wing cutting through the clouds with effortless grace. The airplane’s efficiency came from its simple design. The streamlined monoplane design minimized drag, allowing for greater speeds.
• During the airshow, the aerobatic pilot expertly maneuvered a vintage monoplane, its single wing painted with vibrant colors, through a series of daring loops and rolls. Despite the age of the design, the control was perfect.
• The experimental aircraft incorporated advanced composite materials into its monoplane wing, hoping to further enhance its aerodynamic performance and reduce fuel consumption. They found that with their new composites, the monoplane performed even better than expected.
• Early pioneers of flight experimented with various monoplane designs, each seeking to overcome the limitations of their predecessors and achieve greater flight capabilities. Many designs of this era were used with great success as the only wing, helped to achieve flight.
• The airline opted for a fleet of fuel-efficient monoplanes for its long-haul routes, understanding that the design of a single wing would offer the range needed for the task and improve the airline's profitability. The simplicity of the monoplane was a great factor.