airframe

American  

[air-freym] / ˈɛərˌfreɪm /

noun

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

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airframe British  

/ ˈɛəˌfreɪm /

noun

1. the body of an aircraft, excluding its engines

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Etymology

Origin of airframe

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

Example Sentences

Both jets can conduct aerial combat and surface-attack missions, and feature stealthy airframe designs and materials to reduce their radar signature.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 22, 2025

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

From BBC • May 17, 2025

They were able to identify distinct noise sources originating from the duct, the rotating fan, and the air flowing over the curved airframe surface.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2024

Boeing has acknowledged that manufacturing changes had been made but said that the durability of the airframe was not affected, and the company has continued to express confidence in the plane and its safety.

From New York Times • Apr. 17, 2024

She turned back steeply, lost no height, and swore again as the airframe shuddered, automatic flaps clattering alarmingly as the plane tried to decide what speed it was flying.

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein