The airframe

(Airframe, engines and systems: the structure)

The airframe is everything that gives the aeroplane its shape and carries the loads: the body, the wings, the tail and the legs it stands on. It has to be strong enough to survive flight and landing, yet light enough to leave a useful load for fuel and people. Every part is a compromise between strength and weight, and understanding that compromise tells you why aircraft are built the way they are, and why you treat them gently.