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Fun Facts About Paper Airplanes

Paper airplanes have fascinated children and adults alike around the globe for generations. A simple toy to some, an aeronautics research tool to others, paper airplanes can be folded into a variety of designs, from basic darts and gliders to intricate stunt planes and World War II airplanes. Turning paper into a flying machine may seem simple, but paper airplanes use the same principles of flight as airplanes. Whether they are made to set a world record or design a better airplane, paper airplanes can be educational, interesting and fun.

Inventor
- The invention of the paper airplane is mystery, but Leonardo Di Vinci is often given credit for the feat.
Fun Fact
- According to the Paper Aircraft Association, a paper airplane thrown in space will not fly; it will float in a straight line. Unless it hits an object, it could literally float forever (see Resources).
Wingspan
- The record wingspan of a paper airplane is 40 feet and 10 inches. The craft flew over 114 feet before crashing into a wall.
Education
- Scientists, engineers and students use paper airplanes to study aerodynamics. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) sent a paper airplane to space on a space shuttle.
Shapes
- Paper airplanes can be made in many shapes. According to world record holder Ken Blackburn, airplanes in the shape of an "X," a hoop and a "futuristic spacecraft" can all be made to fly (see Resources).
Weather
- The humidity outside can affect the performance of a paper airplane thrown inside.

Aviation