operating an airplane

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "operating an airplane" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of flying or controlling an aircraft, typically in contexts related to aviation or piloting. Example: "He has been trained for years in operating an airplane and is now ready to take his first solo flight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The liability of pilots taking tricyclics, such as imipramine or amitriptyline, was that these side effects could interfere with operating an airplane.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The problem for FedEx is that it's very expensive to operate an airplane, and it takes time to park a plane.

The New York Times

Mr. Garaventa operates from an airplane, buzzing the mustangs and uring them along with an occasional shotgun blast at their tails.

The New Yorker

Lidar equipment, operated from an airplane, shot laser beam pulses to the Earth's surface to determine the size and extent of geographic features.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The second one is operated with an airplane self-landing configuration, which involves high resolutions in both range and azimuth.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

The apparatus above the bed serves to operate, by remote control, an airplane that carries the filming apparatus.

Johns Hopkins University

The programs were part of an effort to develop a reuseable launching vehicle that would operate more like an airplane, flying frequently, significantly cutting the cost of sending cargoes into space and improving safety.

The New York Times

"Some would argue that you make more money from ancillary fees than you do operating the airplane, and that you'd like to figure out a way to sell us pillows and things while keeping the plane on the ground," Peter Greenberg, the CBS News travel editor, joked to airline executives during a panel discussion at the business travel convention.

The New York Times

The high cost of operating the airplane, and the increasing availability of good roads for ground delivery, ended the venture.

Wikipedia

This provision could be invoked by critics of the new president if, for example, the Trump Organization sells products or services to federal agencies or if U.S. taxpayers are charged for renting space at Trump properties or paying the cost of operating his airplane.

Los Angeles Times

But, he added, "my job is not to increase capacity; My job is to operate the airplane from Point A to Point B, in the safest possible manner".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "flying an aircraft" or "piloting an airplane" to avoid repetition and provide variety in your writing.

Common error

While "operating" can apply to machines generally, avoid using "operating an airplane" when simpler terms like "flying" would be more appropriate in casual conversation. Save it for when precision is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "operating an airplane" functions as a verb phrase describing the action of controlling and managing an aircraft. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English. It is often used to highlight the skill and responsibility involved in piloting.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "operating an airplane" is a grammatically correct phrase that is used to describe the act of controlling and managing an aircraft. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and is most commonly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Scientific sources. While synonyms like "flying an aircraft" and "piloting an airplane" exist, "operating an airplane" emphasizes the technical skill and comprehensive control involved. Remember to use it judiciously, reserving it for contexts where this precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flying an aircraft

This alternative emphasizes the act of piloting the aircraft through the air.

piloting an airplane

This term highlights the pilot's role in guiding the aircraft.

controlling an aircraft

This phrase focuses on the management of the aircraft's systems and movement.

managing an airplane

This suggests overseeing the various functions and aspects of the aircraft's operation.

navigating an aircraft

Focuses on the directional aspect of guiding the airplane.

handling an airplane

This implies skillful management, particularly in challenging situations.

commanding an airplane

Suggests a position of authority and control over the aircraft.

maneuvering an airplane

This emphasizes skillful movements to change course and accomplish tasks.

running an airplane

Refers to the execution and maintenance of airplane systems.

crewing an airplane

Implies working as part of a team to operate the airplane.

FAQs

What are some alternative ways to say "operating an airplane"?

You can use alternatives like "flying an aircraft", "piloting an airplane", or "controlling an aircraft" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "operating an airplane" or should I use "flying an airplane"?

Both "operating an airplane" and "flying an airplane" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Operating" suggests a more technical and comprehensive control, while "flying" is a more general term for the act of piloting an aircraft.

In what contexts is "operating an airplane" most appropriate?

The phrase "operating an airplane" is most appropriate in contexts where technical skill, responsibility, and the comprehensive control of the aircraft's systems are being emphasized, such as pilot training manuals, aviation regulations, or discussions of aircraft mechanics.

How does "operating an airplane" differ from "maintaining an airplane"?

"Operating an airplane" refers to the act of piloting and controlling the aircraft during flight, while "maintaining an airplane" refers to the upkeep, repair, and servicing of the aircraft to ensure its airworthiness. They are distinct but related activities.