airframe

[air-freym]

noun

1. the framework and external covering of an airplane, rocket, etc.

airframe

/ ˈɛəˌfreɪm /

noun

1. the body of an aircraft, excluding its engines

Word History and Origins

Origin of airframe¹

First recorded in 1930–35; air(plane) + frame

Example Sentences

Many attribute frequent crashes to ageing airframes and stretched maintenance cycles.

From BBC

The planes have been upgraded, but the costs of maintaining the airframe and engines are growing.

From BBC

I meet Tom Spencer, an aircraft fitter, attaching some steel plates to the airframe.

From BBC

In developing any new jet, Boeing engineers provide not only the design of the airframe but also instructions on how all the parts must be put together: the configuration.

From Seattle Times

As they ingest air from both the front and from the surface of the airframe, they don't have to work as hard to move the plane, so it burns less fuel.

From Science Daily